Oman Cracks Down on Work Injury Delays, Introduces Fines for Late Reporting

Oman has introduced new regulations to strengthen oversight of work-related injuries and occupational diseases, widening coverage to stress-related conditions and imposing fines on employers for late reporting. The rules, issued under Decision No. 1 of 2026 by the Social Protection Fund, set out detailed coverage criteria, reporting obligations, and penalties for non-compliance.

The regulations apply to injuries that occurred before the law came into force if the injured person’s condition had not yet stabilised, while injuries already stabilised and occupational diseases diagnosed prior to insurance coverage are excluded. Work-related injuries are broadly defined to include approved occupational diseases, stress or fatigue-related conditions, complications of previous injuries, and accidents occurring during work or work-related travel. Coverage also extends to total disability or death during direct travel between an insured person’s home and workplace, provided the route and timing are standard.

Specific criteria govern recognition of stress or fatigue-related injuries, requiring a direct link to the work environment, verified medical evidence, excessive or irregular working hours, and failure by employers to implement preventive measures. Certain heart and brain conditions may also qualify under stringent medical and occupational criteria. Occupational diseases must be confirmed through specialist medical reports, with suspected cases referred to experts, and the Fund may consult other authorities as needed.

The regulation mandates that insured persons notify their employers on the day of injury, if health permits. Employers must report work injuries to the Fund within five days and occupational diseases within 14 days. Failure to report can result in employers bearing compensation costs and fines of 10 Omani rials for every 30 days of delay.

The new framework also clarifies procedures for medical referrals, rehabilitation, disability assessments, and appeals, aiming to standardise processes, strengthen worker protection, and define employer responsibilities within Oman’s social protection system.