Workplace safety is a critical aspect of doing business in Israel. Israeli law places a strong emphasis on protecting the health and well-being of employees. Employers are legally obligated to provide a safe working environment and implement measures to prevent accidents and occupational illnesses. Understanding and adhering to Israel's health and safety regulations is essential for any company operating in the country, regardless of size or industry.
Navigating the complexities of Israeli health and safety laws can be challenging, especially for foreign companies. This guide provides an overview of the key requirements and best practices for ensuring a safe and healthy workplace in Israel in 2025.
Health and Safety Laws and Regulatory Framework
The primary legislation governing occupational health and safety in Israel is the Safety at Work Ordinance [New Version], 5778-2018. This ordinance establishes the general framework for workplace safety and assigns responsibilities to employers and employees.
Key regulations stemming from the Safety at Work Ordinance include:
- Work Safety Regulations (General), 5748-1988: Covers a broad range of safety requirements applicable to most workplaces.
- Work Safety Regulations (Safety Supervisors), 5756-1996: Defines the requirements for appointing safety supervisors and their responsibilities.
- Work Safety Regulations (Medical Examinations of Employees), 5754-1994: Specifies the requirements for medical examinations of employees exposed to specific hazards.
- Work Safety Regulations (Work at Heights), 5767-2007: Sets out the safety requirements for work performed at heights.
- Work Safety Regulations (Hazardous Materials), 5757-1997: Addresses the handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials.
The Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs and Social Services is the primary government agency responsible for enforcing health and safety regulations in Israel. The ministry's inspectors conduct workplace inspections, investigate accidents, and issue orders to ensure compliance.
Occupational Health and Safety Standards and Practices
Israeli occupational health and safety standards are aligned with international best practices. Employers are expected to implement a comprehensive safety management system that includes:
- Risk Assessments: Identifying and evaluating potential hazards in the workplace.
- Preventive Measures: Implementing controls to eliminate or minimize risks.
- Safe Work Procedures: Developing and implementing procedures for performing tasks safely.
- Training: Providing employees with the necessary training and information to perform their jobs safely.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Providing and ensuring the use of appropriate PPE.
- Emergency Preparedness: Developing and implementing emergency plans.
Specific standards and practices vary depending on the industry and the nature of the work. For example, construction sites have specific requirements for fall protection, excavation safety, and equipment operation. Factories have specific requirements for machine guarding, noise control, and hazardous materials handling.
Workplace Inspection Processes and Requirements
The Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs and Social Services conducts workplace inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. Inspections may be routine or triggered by complaints or accidents.
During an inspection, inspectors may:
- Examine the workplace for hazards.
- Review safety documentation, such as risk assessments, training records, and safe work procedures.
- Interview employees about their safety knowledge and practices.
- Issue orders to correct violations.
- Impose fines for non-compliance.
Employers have the right to be present during inspections and to appeal any orders issued by inspectors.
Workplace Accident Protocols and Reporting
Employers are required to report workplace accidents that result in:
- Death
- Serious injury
- Incapacity to work for more than three days
Accidents must be reported to the Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs and Social Services as soon as possible. The ministry will investigate the accident to determine the cause and to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.
The following table outlines the general accident reporting procedure:
| Step | Description
