Health, Safety and Security Review Middle East - Middle East and Africa occupational health market set for healthy growth

This market's compound annual growth rate (CAGR) is anticipated to hit 2.8% during this period, according to the report, entitled Middle East & Africa Occupational Health Market Forecast

The research highlights emerging trends, and in particular the impact of robotics and automation on enhancing occupational health in the region. The introduction of robotics into shared working environments has pioneered a new era in workplace health and safety. From exoskeletons to collaborative robots, these technological advancements are mitigating risks such as exposure to hazardous conditions and substances. The deployment of robotics for handling dangerous materials not only elevates safety standards but also introduces a new dynamic in the occupational health sector within the region. For example, robotics is deployed for handling radioactive materials and working in high-dust exposure environments, resulting in health and safety benefits, production efficiency and quality improvements.

Additionally, remote wireless sensors are now employed for monitoring worksites and facilities. Similarly, risk assessment of new technologies quickly determines workers' safety and health issues. Thus, robotics-led automation of tasks will start a new trend in the Middle East & Africa occupational health market, the report finds.

The research provides an in-depth analysis of the various factors influencing the occupational health market across different segments, delves into the challenges and opportunities in the sector and makes strategic recommendations for stakeholders across the value chain to leverage the market trends for long-term planning and growth.

New policies

The report finds that the increase in work-related stress in every industry and introduction of new policies by government for maintaining the occupational health of the employees is fuelling the growth of the occupational health market in the Middle East & Africa region. Saudi Arabia leads the market, followed closely by the UAE and South Africa, according to the report.

For instance, the UAE has established a standardised approach for managing occupational health and safety (OHS) risks. The UAE Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) Standard developed by the National Crisis Emergency and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) specifies the requirements for an organisation to establish, implement and maintain an OHSMS to manage OHS risks. The Standard was developed based on research of international standards in occupational health and safety, study of incidents in the UAE, and with support of a nationwide stakeholder community.

While the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Labor and Social Development has provided new guidelines that ensure workers' occupational health and safety. In compliance with the National Strategic Program for Occupational Safety and Health, the new resolution has provided employers with a framework to manage all the occupational health and safety issues affecting their employees. The Ministry has urged all employers to comply with this and work within the new framework.