The Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Policy issued by the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) and Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs (MADLSA) rests on the guiding principles established in the Permanent Constitution.
In particular, these include the “values of justice, benevolence, freedom, equality and high morals (Article 18), the promotion of public health and prevention of diseases and epidemics (Article 24), and the ideals of social justice upon which the workers and employer relationship shall be based (Article 30)”, according to a policy document issued yesterday.
The policy operates alongside the following national policies and strategies: Qatar National Vision 2030, which defines broad future trends and reflects the aspirations, objectives, and culture of the Qatari people. The first pillar of the Vision, Human Development, which recognises that a capable and motivated workforce, whose rights are protected and safety is ensured, is instrumental to the achievement of long-term national goals. The pillar stresses the commitment of the State to the provision of world-class health services and a distinguished education system to the entire population.
The Second National Development Strategy (2018-2022) aims at promoting human development through a comprehensive and integrated healthcare system, quality education and training, and an efficient and committed workforce.
The National Health Strategy (2018-2022) focuses on Healthy and Safe Employees among seven priority populations. It aims to work with employers and employees to improve data collection and analysis, increase occupational health-based programmes and to strengthen regulation.
• The National Policy on Labour Inspection, adopted in April 2019, reaffirms the role of labour inspection as a core governmental service committed to ensuring effective compliance and enforcement of the legislation. The Labour Inspection Department of the MADLSA acts as a catalyst for the prevention of occupational accidents, diseases and fatalities.
