How to File an Official Complaint About Unsafe Working Conditions in Bahrain
Unsafe working conditions put workers’ health, safety, and even lives at risk especially in construction, contracting, oil & gas, maritime, and other high-risk sectors.
In Bahrain, workers have the legal right to report unsafe work environments, and employers are obligated to address these hazards promptly.
This blog explains how to file an official complaint about unsafe working conditions in Bahrain, the legal protections for workers, and the steps to ensure your case is handled effectively.
Explore how we handle employment and workplace disputes in Bahrain.
Legal Right to a Safe Workplace
Bahraini labour and occupational safety laws require employers to:
- Provide a safe working environment free from preventable hazards.
- Supply and maintain Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Conduct safety training and hazard assessments.
- Respond promptly to safety complaints raised by workers.
If these obligations are not met, workers have the right to report the matter to the authorities without fear of retaliation.
When to File a Complaint
You should consider filing an official complaint if:
- PPE is not provided or is inadequate.
- Equipment or machinery is unsafe to use.
- Safety protocols are ignored or poorly enforced.
- Work conditions pose an immediate danger to health or life (e.g., unstable scaffolding, exposed electrical wiring, unguarded machinery).
Steps to File an Official Complaint in Bahrain
1. Document the Unsafe Conditions
- Take photos or videos (if allowed) of the hazard.
- Record dates, times, and details of the unsafe situation.
- Keep copies of any written complaints submitted to your employer or supervisor.
2. Notify Your Employer First (If Safe to Do So)
- Submit a written complaint to your employer or safety officer.
- Give them a reasonable time to address the issue.
3. File a Complaint with the Ministry of Labour
- If the employer fails to act, contact the Ministry of Labour via:
- Hotline: Call the ministry’s labour complaints hotline.
- Online portal: Submit a complaint through the official e-services.
- In person: Visit the Labour Relations Directorate.
4. Provide Evidence
- Present all documentation, photos, witness statements, and correspondence.
5. Follow Up
- Keep a record of your complaint number.
- Request updates from the Ministry until the matter is resolved.
Legal Protection for Workers Who File Complaints
Bahraini law prohibits employers from:
- Terminating employment in retaliation for safety complaints.
- Reducing pay or changing duties as punishment.
- Harassing or threatening workers for raising concerns.
If retaliation occurs, the worker can file an additional complaint for unfair treatment or unlawful termination.
Hire an Employment Lawyer in Bahrain for workplace legal issues.
Example:
A group of crane operators reported to management that their equipment’s brakes were faulty. The issue was ignored for weeks. One operator then filed a complaint with the Ministry of Labour, submitting photos and maintenance logs. The Ministry inspected the site, suspended crane operations until repairs were made, and issued a warning to the employer. The worker was protected from any retaliatory action.
Best Practices for Workers
- Always document unsafe conditions before making a complaint.
- Use official channels to ensure your complaint is recorded.
- Keep copies of all communications and Ministry responses.
- Know your right to a safe work environment and legal protection from retaliation.
In our previous blog on Legal Liability for Workplace Accidents Caused by Negligence in Bahrain
