Bahrain Opens 6th National Occupational Safety and Health Conference
Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, inaugurated the 6th National Occupational Safety and Health Conference and Exhibition, organised by the Ministry of Labour and the Occupational Safety and Health Council.
Held under the theme “Enhancing Proactive Protection Through Smart Technologies,” the event brought together representatives from civil society organisations, the three production parties, as well as occupational safety and health experts and specialists.
Shaikh Khalid affirmed that Bahrain continues to develop and modernise its occupational safety and health system in line with global developments. He said these efforts aim to provide safer working environments, protect human capital and support the Kingdom’s broader development objectives.
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the importance of keeping government strategies aligned with rapid technological developments through the continued improvement of legislative and legal frameworks and the adoption of international best practices.
He also stressed that the use of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies has become increasingly important in identifying potential workplace hazards, anticipating risks and strengthening preventive measures.
Shaikh Khalid called for greater cooperation with specialised international organisations, alongside increased investment in scientific research and training to develop national capabilities capable of managing modern occupational safety systems effectively.
He also praised the private sector’s role in supporting workplace safety requirements, noting the positive results achieved through cooperation between the government and businesses.
Among the measures highlighted was the implementation of the midday work ban during the summer, which he said reflected shared responsibility for protecting workers from injuries and heat stress while helping maintain productivity and operational efficiency.
Yousif bin Abdulhussain Khalaf, Minister of Labour and Minister of Legal Affairs, said that strengthening occupational safety and health remains a key priority within Bahrain’s comprehensive development process.
He also highlighted the historical roots of worker safety in Bahrain, referring to the provision of safety care for divers through a floating hospital during the era of His Highness Isa Al Kabeer, Ruler of Bahrain and its Dependencies. He described this as an early pioneering example of occupational safety care.
Minister Khalaf said modern developments in workplace safety represent an extension of these longstanding values, supported by continued development under Bahrain’s current leadership.
He thanked the Deputy Prime Minister for inaugurating the conference, noting its role as a professional platform for exchanging expertise and exploring the latest preventive practices.
The conference is also expected to support efforts to update legislation, strengthen workplace safety awareness and oversight, and encourage the use of smart technologies to anticipate and manage occupational risks.
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