The sixth edition of the Saudi International Conference for Occupational Safety and Health, titled "Exploring the Horizon", concluded in Riyadh from 5-7 May.
Organised by the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health and under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Eng. Ahmed Sulaiman Al Rajhi, the event featured participation from various officials, specialists, and local and international experts.
The conference facilitated the exchange of expertise and best practices in the occupational safety and health sector. It was followed by over 100,000 people via live broadcast and attended by more than 8,000 visitors. The event included discussions on more than 15 specialised topics in dialogue sessions with over 169 speakers and offered 49 training workshops with accredited certificates.
Main topics
Key highlights included discussions on the Kingdom's efforts and experiences in occupational safety and health, aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 objectives. The accompanying exhibition showcased the history and development of occupational safety and health, highlighting the Council's roles in enhancing the attractiveness, safety, and sustainability of the Saudi labour market.
During the opening ceremony, the official website of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health was inaugurated, offering services such as training programmes for accident investigators, report documentation, and awareness training.
The conference was supported by key partners and sponsors, including the General Organisation for Social Insurance (GOSI), Saudi Aramco, King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC), and Saudi Aramco Nabors Drilling (SANAD). The exhibition featured 15 partners and sponsors, and 25 exhibitors from local and international entities, showcasing innovative models, advanced technologies, and modern practices for enhancing workplace safety and sustainability.
Additionally, 16 memorandums of understanding and agreements were signed to promote cooperation in occupational safety and health. Representatives from the International Labour Organization, the Executive Office of the Council of Ministers of Labour in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, and various ministries from Gulf countries and other regions participated in bilateral meetings aimed at improving occupational safety and health standards.
Recommendations
The conference concluded with recommendations to share the Kingdom's experience in developing the occupational safety and health system internationally, especially in digital transformation, and to cooperate with international organisations to exchange knowledge and develop incentives for compliance with safety requirements. Further recommendations included establishing a Gulf committee or body for occupational safety and health and developing legislation to ensure small and medium enterprises comply with occupational safety and health standards.
Saudi Arabia concludes conference on HSE
16 memorandums of understanding and agreements were signed to promote cooperation in occupational safety and health. (Image source: Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development)
