Taking a Workplace Injury Claim to the Labour Court in Bahrain
In Bahrain’s construction, contracting, oil & gas, maritime, and other high-risk industries, workplace injuries can be life-changing.
If an injury occurs due to unsafe working conditions, employer negligence, or a work-related accident, workers have the legal right to seek compensation through the Labour Court if the matter cannot be resolved directly with the employer or the Ministry of Labour.
This blog explains when and how to take a workplace injury claim to the Labour Court in Bahrain, the process involved, and the protections available to injured workers.
Learn about your rights under Bahrain Labour Law.
When to Take a Claim to the Labour Court
A workplace injury case may be taken to the Labour Court if:
- The employer refuses to provide medical care or compensation.
- Compensation offered is unfair or incomplete.
- The Ministry of Labour’s dispute resolution process fails to produce a settlement.
- There is a dispute over whether the injury was work-related.
Steps to File a Workplace Injury Claim in the Labour Court
1. Gather All Evidence
- Signed employment contract.
- Medical reports, hospital bills, and treatment records.
- Incident reports from the workplace.
- Witness statements and photos of the accident scene.
2. Report to the Ministry of Labour First
- Before going to court, most cases must be reported to the Ministry for mediation.
- If no agreement is reached, the Ministry issues a referral to court.
3. File the Case with the Labour Court
- Submit your claim, evidence, and the Ministry’s referral.
- State clearly the compensation sought (medical costs, lost wages, disability payments, etc.).
4. Court Review and Hearings
- The court examines the evidence and may request expert assessments.
- Both the worker and employer can present their case.
5. Judgment and Enforcement
- If the court rules in favor of the worker, the employer is legally obligated to pay.
- The judgment can be enforced through wage deductions, asset seizure, or other legal means.
Worker’s Legal Protections
- You cannot be lawfully dismissed for pursuing a legitimate injury claim.
- Employers are obligated to allow injured workers time off for medical treatment and court appearances.
- The law ensures the worker’s right to full and fair compensation based on the severity of injury and loss suffered.
Get advice from the Best Lawyer in Bahrain for labour law cases.
Example:
A construction worker suffered a leg fracture after a fall from poorly secured scaffolding. The employer paid for initial medical treatment but refused disability compensation.
After failed mediation at the Ministry of Labour, the worker filed a claim in the Labour Court. The court ruled in favor of the worker, awarding full compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and long-term disability.
Best Practices for Injured Workers
- Report the injury immediately to your employer and the Ministry of Labour.
- Keep detailed records of medical treatment and expenses.
- Obtain written witness statements where possible.
- Seek legal advice before filing your court claim to ensure maximum compensation.
In our previous blog on How to File a Labour Complaint with the Ministry of Labour in Bahrain
