Coronavirus: Saudi private sector staff told to work from home for 15 days

Saudi Arabia announced on Wednesday new rules for private sector businesses to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, in an update to the “remote-work” guideline issued on Monday.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development instructed private sector establishments to suspend work for 15 days, and instead activate remote work procedures, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

The measures also include reducing the number of employees in offices to essential staff immediately for the smooth conduct of work and the availability of supply chains, while ensuring they abide by the precautionary measures set by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health.

Which sectors are exempt?

The instructions exempted some key sectors from the new rules.

Vital infrastructure sectors such as electricity, water and communications have been exempted.

Health and food services personnel have also been exempted from this rule, according to the report.

Pregnant women and ill people get 14 days compulsory leave

Moreover, 14 days of compulsory leave must be granted for pregnant and lactating women, those suffering from respiratory diseases, those with immunodeficiency diseases, cancer patients, and those above 55 years of age.

Private sector establishments that provide utility services to government agencies must coordinate with those bodies before suspending attendance at workplaces.

Those coming into work should have their temperature taken and safe distance should be maintained among them at all times, adhering to necessary precautionary measures set by the Ministry of Health.