Mandatory Health Screenings Set for Workers Across Saudi Arabia

Mandatory occupational fitness assessments and screenings for non-communicable diseases are set to be introduced for employees across Saudi Arabia under a three-phase plan outlined in a guide issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.

The framework covers all professions and economic sectors and will eventually apply nationwide.

Implementation will begin with pre-employment screenings, which employers will be required to conduct and upload to an approved electronic system during the first six months after the regulations come into force.

The second phase, lasting 12 months, will expand the programme to existing employees, prioritising high-risk establishments while integrating all businesses into the electronic platform.

The final stage will extend the requirements to all entities, establishments and employees across every sector. Public sector bodies and non-profit organisations will also be covered regardless of contractual arrangements or employment status, including permanent and temporary workers, seasonal staff, trainees, remote employees and persons with disabilities.

According to the guidelines, employees who fail to meet occupational fitness requirements will not be permitted to continue practising their profession. Employers will be required to take the necessary steps to transfer affected workers to other professions, while additional examinations may be conducted to confirm their ability to carry out required duties.

Job candidates who have completed onboarding procedures will not be allowed to begin work until examination results have been approved by a physician specialising in occupational medicine.

The regulations also allow assessments to be conducted during employment in cases involving occupational injuries or diseases, changes in profession or work environment, or where the nature of the role requires periodic evaluations.