Rules that light path to harmony in the workplace 

With relationships between employers and staff currently coming under unprecedented strain, it is important to understand what guidance and support are available to both, with the aim of maintaining a healthy work environment. 

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development requires employers to fairly assess employees in everything related to their career path on the basis of eligibility, competition, and equal opportunities with other employees. This includes helping and motivating employees to improve their performance, which not only helps individual staff but also improves productivity, and is therefore in the interest of the employer too.  

Moreover, because freedom of opinion and the proper exchange of views are among the main foundations of creativity, there must be opportunities for discussion, dialogue, and the free expression of opinion within the work framework. Every employee also has a right to file a complaint about any decision taken against him by the employer or one of his staff that the employee believes to be wrongful.  

Employees also have responsibilities. They must perform their duties responsibly and efficiently according to best practices within a reasonable time, and be familiar with relevant laws and regulations and business policies and goals. 

Employees must refrain from any acts that offend against public morals and decency, or any actions or practices that are inconsistent with Shariah, including insulting others’ religious beliefs or traditions, either inside or outside the workplace. 

One current controversial issue is that of overtime, on which the regulations are clear; employees should not hesitate to work extra hours, based on the employer’s instructions, if the needs of the business require it, provided the overtime does not conflict with the rules imposed by the relevant ministry.  

Employees are obliged to report any irregularities they discover, but they must not do so with the intention of harming colleagues or managers. Employers must ensure that reports of any offenses reach the appropriate person, and must guarantee that the employee making the report is not harmed by the disclosures, especially if it affects the business negatively. 

If anyone is in any doubt about what is required of them in the workplace, they may refer to the guidelines prepared by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. They are an excellent reference tool that sets the basic rules that guide the parties to this relationship toward the proper way to deal with each other and how to perform their duties, as well as explaining the qualities that both the employer and the employee should possess. 

When both employers and staff understand their rights and responsibilities, the result is a more attractive work environment, greater professionalism, enhanced job security, and smoother operation of the business. 

• Dimah Talal Alsharif is a Saudi legal counsel and a member of the International Association of Lawyers. 

Twitter: @dimah_alsharif