NEOM Worker Welfare Minimum Standard - R01.01

STANDARD
WORKER WELFARE MINIMUM STANDARD
NEOM-NDC-STD-001 Rev 01.01, November 2022
©NEOM [2022]. All rights reserved.
4
Document History
Revision code Description of changes Purpose of issue Date
Rev 01.00 First Issue Issued for Implementation 30 Oct 2022
Rev 01.01 Minor Corrections For Update to Contractors 15 Nov 2022
Document Approval
Prepared by Reviewed by Approved by
Name Marwah Alofi / ETSD Team AbuJahed (AJ) Ahad

Scott McLaughlin
Job Title Eng. Project Management ETSD

– D&C / Senior Manager Director, Worker Welfare &
Livability - D&C
Worker Welfare – D&C
DOCUMENT CODE : NEOM-NDC-STD-001 REVISION : 01 PAGE 2 OF 27

Contents
1 INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................... 5
1.1 Purpose ................................................................................................................... 5
1.2 Scope ...................................................................................................................... 5
1.3 Compliance and Legal Requirements ...................................................................... 6
2 DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS ................................................................... 7
3. REFERENCES ........................................................................................................ 9
3.1 Neom Documents .................................................................................................... 9
3.2 Other Documents ..................................................................................................... 9
4 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES .......................................................................... 9
5 EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES ................................................................................ 10

5.1 Ethical Recruitment ................................................................................................ 10
5.2 Employment Offer .................................................................................................. 10
5.3 Worker’s Onboarding ............................................................................................. 11
5.4 Employment Contract............................................................................................. 11
5.5 Employment Conditions ......................................................................................... 12
5.6 Payment of Workers............................................................................................... 13
5.7 Summer Working Norms ........................................................................................ 13
5.8 End of Employment ................................................................................................ 14
5.9 Grievance redressal Mechanism ............................................................................ 15
5.10 Self-audits & Reporting Requirements ................................................................... 15
6. GROUP LABOR ACCOMMODATION................................................................... 16

6.1 Facility Design........................................................................................................ 16
6.2 Location and Buildings ........................................................................................... 17
6.3 Ventilation and Air Conditioning ............................................................................. 17
6.4 Bathrooms ............................................................................................................. 17
6.5 Bedrooms .............................................................................................................. 18
6.6 Kitchens (Catered and Self-Cooking) ..................................................................... 18
6.7 Mess and Dining Areas .......................................................................................... 20
6.8 Leisure and General Facilities ............................................................................... 20
6.9 Laundry Services ................................................................................................... 20
6.10 Lighting .................................................................................................................. 21
6.11 Sanitary Drainage .................................................................................................. 21

6.12 Water Supply ......................................................................................................... 21
6.13 Hot and Cold-Water Supply.................................................................................... 21
6.14 Drinking Water ....................................................................................................... 22
6.15 Electricity Supply.................................................................................................... 22
6.16 Gas Supply ............................................................................................................ 22
6.17 Firefighting Systems, Alarms, and Public Address Systems ................................... 23
6.18 Firefighting Equipment and Emergency Exits ......................................................... 23
6.19 Medical Services .................................................................................................... 24
6.20 Public Health Hazards............................................................................................ 24
6.21 Waste Disposal ...................................................................................................... 24
6.22 Health, Safety and Security .................................................................................... 25
6.23 Accommodation Management................................................................................ 25
7. TRANSPORTATION AND VEHICLE SAFETY ...................................................... 27

1 Introduction
NEOM is committed to the health, safety, welfare, security, and the dignity of workers. NEOM
requires organizations supporting the delivery of NEOM to share commitment by making
Worker Welfare an integral component of their operations. NEOM as per this document has
defined Worker Welfare (WW) Minimum Standards for accommodation, transport, and
employment practices (based on applicable Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) laws and
regulations) for adherence by our Contractors (refers to Contractors or Service Providers
directly appointed by NEOM to deliver product and/or services within the NEOM Estate).
1.1 Purpose
The NEOM Supplier Code of Conduct (CoC) sets out the ethical issues most important to
NEOM. Our Code of Conduct sets out what we expect from our suppliers to NEOM, to help
us uphold our commitments to our values, our people, our world, our technology, and our
responsible business practices.
This document ‘Worker Welfare Minimum Standard’ is an extension to that commitment and
applies to all current Contractors of NEOM, and any other entity established in connection
with the NEOM project, such as our subsidiaries and any joint ventures in which we hold a
50% interest or more.
This document describes the Worker Welfare Assurance Standards for Employment
Practices, Group Labor Accommodation and Transportation applicable to Contractors (and
as applicable their subcontractors).
NEOM believes that compliance with the Standards established in this document will not only
improve workers’ health and well-being but will also enhance performance and efficiency for
the benefit of all stakeholders.
1.2 Scope
Within the Worker Welfare Minimum Standard, ‘Worker Welfare’ means the protection and
preservation of the dignity of workers throughout the entire migration cycle including but not
limited to, recruitment, mobilization, working and living conditions and repatriation.
This document and the requirements contained within it apply to all current contractors and
suppliers, their subcontractors, and all subsequent levels of subcontractors (including
manpower suppliers) working with/for NEOM.
Accommodation standards listed in this document are applicable only to employers whose
workers reside in company provided group Labor accommodation, apartments, or villas within
the KSA, regardless of the occupancy capacity, unless otherwise stated. All contractors are
expected to adhere to and implement policies and practices to meet or exceed the standards
or additional standards as required by applicable KSA Labor Law and Regulations.
The listed requirements within this document cover Employment Practices, Group Labor
Accommodation and Transportation, taken from KSA Labor Law and Regulations, however,
there are additional NEOM requirements identified in alignment with the expectations of the
NEOM Supplier Code of Conduct, these are identifiable by the different color of a font (Blue)
within this document.

1.3 Compliance and Legal Requirements
All contractors must adhere to the relevant laws of the KSA including regulations, decrees,
orders, guidelines, decisions, or directives (and any amendments or changes) issued by the
relevant authorities including documents referenced within Section 3 References of this
Worker Welfare Minimum Standard.
Where provisions of the NEOM specific requirements are more stringent than the laws and
regulations of KSA, the NEOM specific requirements will prevail. Where the provisions of KSA
laws and Regulations differ from those of NEOM’s, the more stringent legal requirements will
apply.
Contractors must conduct worker welfare compliance self-audits regularly and that of its
subcontracted supply chain. Contractors shall be liable for any non-Compliance by itself or by
any of its Other Contracting Parties with these Standards, as if such non-compliance was the
non-compliance of the Contractor.
Contractors and Other Contracting Parties are accountable for compliance with Section 5, 6
and 7 of this Worker Welfare Minimum Standard. These are the minimum requirements for the
welfare of workers and forms the basis of audits that will be conducted by worker welfare
monitors.
NEOM’s Worker Welfare Monitors, or any other party appointed by NEOM, will be authorized
to govern, and audit all matters regarding the implementation of the Standards. NEOM and
other designated representatives will, at all reasonable times and with sufficient notice, have
the right of access to the Contractors Offices, Accommodation Facilities, Transportation,
catered kitchens, Workers and all such related records, in order to verify adherence to these
Worker Welfare Minimum Standards and/or KSA Laws and Regulations.

2 Definitions and Abbreviations
Term Definition
Accommodation A building or group of buildings designated for housing employees of

establishments.
Basic Wage Means the monetary consideration given to a Worker in return for their
service under the terms of their Employment Contract, which amount is
used as a basis from which overtime and benefit calculations (including the
payment of leave) are made.
Basic Working Hours Means the basic working hours of a Worker not exceeding eight (8) hours
per day and forty-eight (48) per week except during the Holy month of
Ramadan when the basic working hours shall not exceed six (6) hours per
day and thirty-six (36) hours per week, with a rest interval of not less than an
hour and a half per day.
Contractor Contractor or Service Provider directly appointed by NEOM to deliver

product/services within the NEOM Estate.
Employer or Employers The entity as defined under KSA Labor Law, that directly hires and is legally
responsible for its employees.
Forced, compulsory, Work that is performed involuntarily and under the menace of any penalty. It
bonded, human refers to situations in which persons are coerced to work using violence or
trafficking practices intimidation, or by subtler means such as manipulated debt, retention of
identity papers or threats of denunciation to immigration authorities.
Examples include performing jobs different to that which workers were
recruited for, compulsory overtime, debt incurred through recruitment fees,
substitution of contracts or wages, confiscation of personal documents etc.
Law or Laws Any law, regulation, directive, decree, ministerial decision, or order issued
and amended and/or updated from time to time by governmental authorities,
in the country of work.
OCP Other Contracting Parties, means any subcontractor, consultant, Labor

supplier or Recruitment Agent to a Contractor.
Overtime Means any working hours exceeding the Basic Working Hours worked by a
Worker with their consent, provided that the overall working hours do not
exceed sixty (60) hours in the week on average unless the overtime work is
necessary for the prevention of gross loss or dangerous accident or for the
elimination of consequences of such a loss or accident.
Recruitment Fees Means any fees, costs or expenses charged by a Recruitment Agent or a
Contractor in respect of a proposed Worker obtaining employment in the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia including any fees, costs or expenses related to
medical tests, police clearances, recruitment advertisements, interviews,
insurance, government taxes in the country of origin, pre-departure
orientations, airline tickets and airport taxes and any fees, costs or expenses
charged by the Recruitment Agent to recuperate any Placement Fees.

Term Definition
Site All parts of the physical location of a project within the defined NEOM site.
Standards This document, also known as the Worker Welfare Minimum Standards.
Subcontractor or Any party or subsidiary appointed by an employer to perform work on the

Subcontractors NEOM site. It includes any enterprise that provides workers to carry out
work at the NEOM site.
Wages or Salary Money given to a worker in return for services in line with the terms of
his/her employment and applicable legal requirements, including any other
entitlements such as other allowances, overtime, end of service, etc.
Worker or Workers Every natural person authorised by the relevant authority to work for a
licensed establishment in the country under supervision and direction of the
employer. A paid employee who is usually: in the lowest salary bands and/or
eligible for an overtime payment and/or staying in employer-provided
accommodation.
Worker Welfare Refers to the protection and preservation of the health, safety, welfare,
security, rights and the dignity of workers throughout the entire migration
cycle which includes recruitment, mobilisation, living and working, as well as
return to their home countries.

3. References
3.1 Neom Documents
Document no. Document Title

NEOM Supplier CoC NEOM Supplier Code of Conduct
Part 1: Design & Construction NEOM Employers Requirements

Requirements
NEOM-NPR-SOP-018 Employer supplied accommodation
3.2 Other Documents

Document no. (references) Document Title
Articles as referenced within this document KSA Labor Law
SBC as referenced within this document Saudi Building Codes (SBC)
First Edition - October 2021G Manual of Group Housing for Individuals

Conditions to be Fulfilled in Different Residential
Units First Edition - October 2021G
NFPA Codes as referenced within this National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
document Codes
CDR as referenced within this document KSA Civil Defense Regulations (CDR)
4 Roles and Responsibilities

The key stakeholders with their roles and responsibilities are detailed throughout this Worker
Welfare Minimum Standard for adherence (e.g. Contractors or Service Providers directly appointed
by NEOM to deliver product and/or services within the NEOM Estate).

5 EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES
5.1 Ethical Recruitment
a. The Contractor must have in place the relevant policies and procedures, and documented
worker welfare manuals to reflect relevant KSA laws and the NEOM Worker Welfare Standards
to ensure the fair and ethical treatment of workers. KSA Labor Law, Article 33 & NEOM Supplier
CoC, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5).
b. The Contractor must obtain the relevant documentation from the Other Contracting Parties
to assess their compliance with all relevant KSA laws and the WW Standards during the
recruitment of their workers. (NEOM Supplier CoC, 2.0).
c. The Contractor and its Other Contracting Parties must only use the services of a Recruitment
Agency that is validly registered with the KSA Ministry of Labor. (KSA Labor Law, Article 33)
d. The contract between the Contractor and its Recruitment Agent must stipulate that a worker
is not to be charged any Recruitment or Processing Fees including any upfront deposits or
security-payments for the provision of recruitment services (KSA Labor Law, Article 44).
e. Contractor will ensure that the Recruitment Agency within the labor sending countries will
not charge candidates any Recruitment or Processing Fees, including any upfront deposits or
security-payments, for the provision of recruitment services to secure work at NEOM, even if
legally permissible in the labor sending country, and prohibit the use of any unlicensed brokers
or sub-agents.
f. The Contractor must reimburse a worker upon receiving substantiating proof that any
Recruitment or Processing Fees has been paid by a worker to a Recruitment Agent (KSA Labor
Law, Article 40).
g. The Contractor must ensure proper training is provided to its workers with regards to
employment practices and complying with the NEOM code of conduct. (KSA Labor Law, Article
46 & NEOM Supplier CoC, 4.0)
5.2 Employment Offer

Recruitment of newly hired workers brought to work within the NEOM Estate shall fully
understand the terms and conditions of their employment prior to making their choice
to work for their Employer. The Offer Letter must be in writing and explained to the
worker in a language they understand with a copy held by the worker.
a. Worker shall be given a copy of the signed Original Offer of Employment, prior to departing
their home country, in a language they understand.
b. The employment offer meets all legal requirements:
i. an overview of the role and responsibilities of the job and the basic wage along with all the
allowances (KSA Labor Law, Article 52).
ii. the basic working hours of the worker (KSA Labor Law, Article 106).
iii. the overtime hours of the worker (KSA Labor Law, Article 107).
iv. the overtime payment of the worker (normal and holiday overtime), (KSA Labor Law,
Article 107)

v. the entitlement of worker to accommodation, food, and transport (as per KSA Labor Law,
Article 147)
vi. the entitlement to days off, rest days and annual leave including flights home during their
leaves without any penalty (as per KSA Labor Law, Article 104).
vii. the Employer must pay for the return air travel expenses for repatriation to the nearest
international airport at the home country of the worker (as per KSA Labor Law, Article
109).
viii. the worker's right to sick leave and pay (as per KSA Labor Law, Article 117).
c. the employment letter must be in writing and explained to the worker in a language they
understand.
d. the Contractor must be responsible for all costs associated with relocating the worker from
their home country (KSA Labor Law, Article 40).
5.3 Worker’s Onboarding

a. A new worker onboarding pack is available, and evidence of use is shared. The pack explains:
i. that adequate transportation is arranged for the worker to travel to the site for a safe
boarding (KSA Labor Law Article 147).
ii. that as part of the onboarding procedure, the worker's bank account, ID cards, and medical
check-up are set up and completed (KSA Labor Law Article 143).
iii. that newly appointed workers are given an induction training incorporating the company
policies, safety rules and regulations, dos and don’ts as per the KSA Labor Law (KSA
Labor Law Article 41).
iv. the details of the key contacts to the KSA Ministry of Labor for emergency purposes and
for grievance redressal (KSA Labor Law Article 91).
v. that travel between airport and site includes adequate halts, meal provisions and prayer
breaks, etc. in case there is a long travel time between the two locations.
5.4 Employment Contract

a. The employment contract must be signed by the worker and a copy of the contract must be
given to the worker (KSA Labor Law Article 51).
b. The employment contract must be compliant with the minimum requirements of worker
welfare standards as per the KSA Law.
c. The worker must be extended an employment contract that is no less favorable than the
offer letter – only changes made should be more advantageous to the worker.
d. Workers must only perform the role and responsibilities they were recruited and trained for
as per the employment contract (KSA Labor Law Article 38).
e. No changes must be made to an employment contract without the free and voluntary prior
written consent of the worker (KSA Labor Law Article 226).

5.5 Employment Conditions
a. There is a written and approved Contractor's HR policy, that must include the following:
i. provides all workers equal opportunity regardless of any demographics.
ii. does not impose financial penalties on workers (KSA Labor Law Article 71, 72, and
73)
iii. express prohibition in the use of any form of intimidation against the worker. To ensure
the dignified and ethical treatment of all workers, the Contractor ensures: the use of
violence, bullying, harassment, victimization, threats, and intimidation in any form
against workers is strictly prohibited (KSA Labor Law Article 81).
iv. disciplinary action procedures against any of its managerial staff or other employees
who are found to be in breach of the prohibitions prescribed under law (KSA Labor
Law Article 81).
v. ensure that workers have the freedom of movement in and out of the accommodation.
vi. ensure that workers are paid sick leave if absent due to an accident or injury
performing the responsibilities of the job (KSA Labor Law Article 117).
vii. ensure that workers get adequate treatment if involved in an accident or injury
performing the responsibilities of the job. Where an injury of a worker prevents the
worker from undertaking their work, the Contractor must continue to pay that worker’s
wage subject to the provisions of the Saudi Labor Law (KSA Labor Law Article 133).
viii. pay for any expenses related to medicines, consultations, tests, etc. as suggested by
the worker’s medical practitioner if not covered under medical insurance.
ix. ensure that workers are entitled to unpaid leave for specified days in the event of a
childbirth or death or serious debilitating injury to a member of their immediate family
(as per the Saudi Labor Law). A worker shall be entitled to one day of paid leave in
the case of childbirth and three days for marriage or in the case of the death of a
spouse or one of his/her ascendants and descendants (KSA Labor Law Article 113).
x. ensure the renewal of work permits for the workers; however, if it fails to do so, then
any fine so levied will be borne by it (KSA Labor Law Article 40).
xi. ensure that all the personal files of the workers are maintained in a timely manner and
include all the required information (offer letter, employment contract, leave taken,
emergency contacts, work appraisal, skill history, etc.) (KSA Labor Law Article 17).
b. All workers must be in possession of their personal documents, including:
i. passport
ii. a valid work visa (which should be transferred into a valid resident permit) (KSA Labor
Law Article 40).
iii. Saudi ID card (KSA Labor Law Article 40).
iv. health insurance (free of charge).
v. bank card(s).

c. All workers must be under the sponsorship of the same employer (sponsor) as mentioned
on the Saudi ID card (KSA Labor Law Article 33).
5.6 Payment of Workers

a. Worker’s salaries are paid on time and in full without illegal deductions:
i. pay, and shall ensure its Other Contracting Parties pay, all Workers in accordance
with the Wage Protection System implemented under the KSA Labor Law.
ii. not impose any charges or interest on wages paid in advance of the due date whether
by way of advance payment or loan (KSA Labor Law Article 92).
iii. ensure that any deductions from wages are only made strictly in accordance with the
requirements of KSA Labor Law (KSA Labor Law Article 62).
iv. make no deductions from the salaries of the worker for recruitment, relocation or visa
cost, accommodation, food, training and development, and medical insurance/health
care.
b. The worker must be provided with a pay slip for each pay period and must be paid on a timely
basis in line with the KSA Labor Law. Pay slip must include a full breakdown - employee
information, salary, number of hours worked, rate of pay, overtime hours, and pay, leave
pay deductions, allowances, etc (KSA Labor Law Article 90).
c. Workers must be compensated if they work on a rest day.
d. Workers shall continue to receive their Wage when attending skills training, induction training
or other training.
e. The Contractor must keep a wage register.
f. Whenever the circumstances of work require a worker to work extra hours or on their rest
day, the worker must be compensated for the rest day in accordance with the KSA Labor
Law (overtime payment) (KSA Labor Law Article 90).
5.7 Summer Working Norms

a. ensure that proper training, counselling, and education for all management levels and
workers exposed to working in hot places regarding symptoms related to heat exposure
such as: heat stroke, dehydration, and their prevention methods are rolled out (KSA Labor
Law Article 49).
b. ensure that proper personal protective equipment is provided to workers such as heat
protective cap (KSA Labor Law Article 123).
c. ensure that regular monitoring of the temperature and humidity at site at multiple intervals
is carried out and the deployment of a trained person to observe and respond to situations.
d. schedule the working hours in the coldest hours of the day.
e. ensure that adequate fluids are provided to workers (KSA Labor Law Article 121).

f. ensure that all precautions, engineering designs, control and engineering implementation
that allow heat reduction are followed and undertake work risk assessment in the hot places
of work and identify protective measures for the same (KSA Labor Law Article 123).
g. ensure that proper breaks for workers deployed in hot places are given, and that workers
must also be properly medically examined before deployment.
h. ensure strict compliance with the regulations of the Ministry of Human Resources and
Social Development. (Employees are prohibiting to work under the direct sun from 12 noon
to 3 pm between 15th June to 15th September).
i. provide light-colored clothes preferably cotton-made to workers.
j. deploy a Safety Officer whose role and responsibilities will be ensuring compliance towards
the norms set by the worker welfare and raising workers’ awareness around risks
associated with the job (KSA Labor Law Article 201).
k. ensure any buildings and vehicles which are utilized by employees are with air conditioners.
l. ensure nutritional food and drinks (e.g. fruits and juices) are provided, as well as access to
a sufficient amount of fresh drinking water and the provision of personal water bottles for
use when at site or in vehicles.
m. ensure to provide employees the right to safely seek shelter in case of unbearable
conditions like sandstorms or excessive heat (over 50 Celsius).
n. ensure to provide the site with a medical point and an adequate emergency response team
and means (equipment, first aid box, ambulance) in case of a severe medical or health
problem.
5.8 End of Employment

a. Contractor’s policies and procedures shall stipulate that a Worker shall be entitled to
terminate their Employment Contract without notice and retain full rights to both the End of
Service Gratuity and repatriation at the expense of the Contractor where the Contractor:
i. commits a breach of its obligations under the Employment Contractor at Law or
ii. the Contractor’s representatives commit a physical or immoral act upon such Worker
or
iii. has misrepresented to the Worker, at the time of entering into the Original Offer of
Employment and/or the Employment Contract, as to the terms and conditions of the
work or
iv. is aware of a danger to the health, safety or security of the Worker and did not take
the necessary steps to remove the relevant danger.
b. The Contractor must ensure that the worker may end his/her service without notice and still
be entitled to repatriation and end of service gratuity if the Contractor commits a worker
welfare breach (KSA Labor Law Article 75, 76, and 88).
c. The Contractor must ensure repatriation of the worker upon the end of their tenure and
transport back home (KSA Labor Law Article 40).

d. All wages and end of service gratuity payable to workers at the end of their employment
contracts must be paid to the relevant worker before their return to their country of origin or
as soon as reasonably practicable if the worker remains in Saudi Arabia (KSA Labor Law
Article 88).
e. The Contractor must ensure that all wages and end of service pay will be transferred to the
worker's dependents in the case of death (KSA Labor Law Article 88).
5.9 Grievance redressal Mechanism

a. The Contractor must undertake grievance redressal procedure and the mechanism to raise
queries must be made aware to the workers through proper training and awareness
sessions.
b. Grievance key contacts at NEOM, at Contractor, government process, etc. must be made
aware to the workers.
c. Grievance redressal details undertaken by the Contractor in the past and the assistance
provided by the Contractor in resolving the same for the workers must be made aware to
the workers.
d. The Contractor must facilitate and ensure the election of the workers’ representatives to
participate in the WW Forum.
e. The Contractor must have a procedure to ensure that grievances raised at the WW Forum
are recorded on a confidential basis and are actioned.
5.10 Self-audits & Reporting Requirements

a. The Contractor must conduct self-audits and that of its supply chain:
i. undertake a quarterly self-audit for its compliance with the WW Standards.
ii. also require its Other Contracting Parties to undertake their own monthly self-audits.
iii. submit all the required regular worker welfare reports as requested by NEOM.
b. The Contractor must have adequate resource to assure compliance with legal and
additional requirements:
i. Employ a full-time Worker Welfare Officer.
ii. Utilize prescribed worker welfare systems, manuals and tools by NEOM.
iii. Attend NEOM provided worker welfare Training, Meetings, Forums and the like.

6. Group Labor Accommodation
6.1 Facility Design
Group Labor Accommodation must be designed in accordance with KSA Law, Manual
of Group Housing for Individuals Conditions to be fulfilled in different residential units,
first edition- October 2021 and Neom Employers Requirements, Part 1: Design &
Construction Requirements.
a. All buildings shall have numbers, names and signage as accepted by NEOM.
b. Accommodation to have a sign plate indicating the establishment/landlord’s name, contact

number of the accommodation supervisor and residential capacity.
c. It should be at least 2 km away from the urban mass within the urban boundaries of the
cities of the centers of national growth, and at a distance not less than 500 meters for the
cities of the regional and local growth centers.
d. The property is wholly owned or leased to one facility: there must be a plate indicating the
name of the facility and the contact number of the property supervisor and the housing
capacity
e. Residence for men shall be separated from women.
f. The building’s roof may not be leased for residential purpose.
g. Residential facilities must be free from cracks that allow entry of insects or light from the
other side.
h. Floors must be of recognized materials, such as marble, ceramic, tile, or cement.
i. Stair angles shall be 45 degrees and with guard rails.
j. The building must be of appropriate materials recognized for residential use as to quality
and appearance, such as bricks, concrete, aluminum, or portable cabins. It is totally
forbidden to use any materials containing Asbestos.
k. Units to have some areas with bright colors (e.g. NEOM standard graphics and color
schemes should be used) both externally and internally, to provide a more attractive living
environment.
l. Each accommodation block to have adjacent outdoor seating and shading.
m. Intact doors of recognized material, such as (wood or iron) at the entrance of residential
unit, all bedrooms, and bathrooms shall be installed.
n. Signage for each residential unit including ambulance and police numbers and municipal
reports shall be displayed at prominent places.
o. It is prohibited to use buildings designated for housing as temporary or permanent

warehouses for any materials dangerous to health and life, or materials with a high
explosive, flammable or chemical susceptibility, or to store these materials in places that
pose a threat to the safety and health of residents in these residences.
p. Each accommodation building is to be equipped with fire alarms and nearby muster points.

6.2 Location and Buildings
To ensure that the group accommodation provides workers a safe, suitable,
comfortable, and as close as reasonably practical to the place of work.
a. The accommodation facility should be away from workplaces that emit air pollutants such
as gases, dust, smoke, liquid and solid waste, or anything that causes health damage. The
facility shall not be built in the path of the prevailing winds passing through the workplaces.
b. It must not be in dangerous areas, storm-water channels, areas of antiques or area of

environmental significance or unfit for human habitation, such as nature reserves,
agricultural areas etc. It must be located at no less than (1000 m) away from such areas.
6.3 Ventilation and Air Conditioning

The air conditioning and ventilation systems shall be appropriate for the local climate
and provide residents with a comfortable and healthy environment.
a. Adequate air conditioning shall be provided for all buildings.
b. No window-fitted air conditioner will be allowed.
c. All rooms designated for sleeping, resting, preparing, and dining must be provided with
windows directly overlooking the outdoors, not less than 5% of the floor areas of the place.
d. These windows are provided, wherever necessary, with a fine metal mesh to prevent
insects from entering the dwelling while providing natural lighting.
6.4 Bathrooms
Accommodation facility must include sufficient sanitary facilities that are kept clean and
serviceable.
a. Location of bathrooms shall be separated from dining rooms. Awareness posters shall be
placed at bathrooms and kitchens for correct means of handwashing.
b. Any common bathroom has one toilet + one wash basin + one shower per five workers or
less.
c. Provide urinals that do not need water at the rate of one to 25 persons
d. The toilet room is completely isolated from the other sections of the dwelling. Its area shall
not be less than (1.5 square meters).
e. The area of one shower shall not be less than (120 cm x 80 cm) along with nozzle, shower
head, hot and cold water, and siding door.
f. Suction fans and lighting shall be installed in bathrooms.
g. All bathrooms shall be fully tiled to the ceiling with non-slip high quality large format tiles,
with a thickness more than 6mm.
h. Bathrooms include mirrors over the basins.
i. Bathrooms are cleaned daily and more frequently as conditions dictate.
j. Sanitary and toilet facilities are not shared between men and women, except in family
accommodation.

6.5 Bedrooms
Bedrooms to be designed, provisioned, maintained to provide comfortable and
sufficient space for the workers to rest and sleep as well as have suitable storage and
personal security. Comply with NEOM Technical Standards for Room Types, either A, B,
C or D as specified in NEOM-NPR-SOP-018.
a. Height of bedroom ceiling must be 3m without the plaster or decoration and no less than
2.2m with the plaster or decoration.
b. Each resident shall be provided with a minimum area of 6 m2 per person in a bedroom.
c. Maximum number of residents per room is 6 while observing the specified space area for
each person.
d. Each resident is provided a sleeping area that is not shared with any other person.
e. In rooms with multiple beds, there is a minimum space of 1metre between beds, each bed
includes a privacy screen/curtain.
f. All mattresses, pillows, duvets/blankets are replaced, every two years, at no cost to the
resident.
g. Beds will be free of infestation of any kind such as bed bugs.
h. Each resident shall be allocated with a closet to put his/her clothes and tools and leave a
distance of at least 80cm between the bed and the closet.
i. Smoke detectors shall be fitted in every bedroom, with evidence of testing maintained for
each room.
j. Intact mesh window screens for openings shall be provided to prevent entry of insects.
k. Windows shall be fitted with black-out blinds and curtains.
l. All doors and windows shall be lockable.
m. Shoe racks are provided and placed at the entrance to every bedroom.
6.6 Kitchens (Catered and Self-Cooking)

Kitchen facilities must have sufficient equipment and resources. Adequate facilities for
food storage, preparation and cooking must be available, hygienic, and well maintained.
a. Where caterers are contracted to manage kitchens and canteens, special attention should
be paid to ensure that contractors take into account and implement the requirements
mentioned below in 2.6 (b).
b. Food catered to site for meals must follow all KSA regulations on food safety.
c. ensure serving of meals either in stainless steel or disposable utensils and dishes for
hygienic purposes.
d. ensure equipping the kitchen with air extractors to extract vapours, odours and heat.
e. Where catered kitchen facilities are provided within the accommodation premises:
i. Kitchen workers have valid health certificates.
ii. All food preparation areas, serving areas, counters, shelves, shall either be stainless
steel or glass.
iii. Workers in kitchens shall wear clean uniforms at work times as per the requirements
of food safety and hygiene.
iv. Provide permanent natural ventilation inside with a window to the open air with a
suitable area, protected by a fine metal mesh, with a suitable air suction cup.
v. The food provided to individuals should contain the basic materials necessary for the
body such as proteins, sugars, fats, vitamins, and minerals, provided that the number

of calories that the individual obtains per day as a result of eating the three daily
meals shall not be less than (3500 calories).
vi. Cleaning toilets, kitchens, and dining halls twice a day, provided that disinfectants
are used at least once a week, according to the factory ’s instructions and under the
supervision of a specialized technician, and in times other than preparing or serving
food.
vii. The kitchen must be managed by a licenced food service company or by professional
catering staff.
f. Where self-cooking facilities are provided within the accommodation premises:
i. Clean and usable kitchen with intact cooking stove (electric or gas), intact cooling
equipment for food preservation is provided.
ii. The kitchen area shall not be less than 1.5metres by 1metre and sized to be sufficient
for 25% of total residents to prepare and cook meals.
i. Kitchen shall be provided with one stainless-steel basin for utensils and tool’s
washing, for every five persons of the kitchen’s total capacity.
ii. All food preparation areas, serving areas, counters, shelves, shall either be stainless
steel or glass.
iii. Independent warehouse with shelves to store foodstuff or cupboards in kitchen
subject to the necessary health requirements to transport, store and circulate
foodstuff, such as temperature, humidity and storage means.
iv. Adequately spaced washbasin and fresh water taps with a suitable flow shall be
provided.
v. Kitchen liquid waste shall be disposed of through proper sewerage system.
vi. The kitchen floor is tiled.
vii. The floor and walls shall be designed from smooth materials that are easy to clean,
and the floor shall be provided with a drain that is adequately protected from the entry
of insects or rodents through it.
viii. Cleaning kitchens twice a day, provided that disinfectants are used at least once a
week and under the supervision of a specialised technician, and in times other than
preparing or serving food.
ix. Provide permanent natural ventilation inside with a window to the open air with a
suitable area, protected by a fine metal mesh, with a suitable air suction cup.
x. Kitchen windows and catering places shall be closed with tiny mesh screens to keep
rodents and insects out.
xi. Contract with cleaning company to clean, disinfect and sanitize residential units and
facilities (kitchens) at least every 3 months shall be in place and proof of the same
shall be provided.
xii. Kitchen external door (if any) shall be provided with tiny mesh screen and air curtains
to protect against insects.
xiii. Proper suction fans for each kitchen shall be provided.
xiv. Sufficient number of insect traps shall be provided for each kitchen.
xv. Two cardon dioxide fire extinguishers shall be provided for every kitchen.
xvi. Containers to collect food waste shall be firmly sealed.

6.7 Mess and Dining Areas
All mess/dining hall with sufficient seating space for residents to comfortably eat their
meals and is kept well cleaned at all times.
a. Dining halls and kitchens shall be no more than 400m walking distance from the farthest
accommodation and have all the necessary furniture, industrial grade appliances &
equipment, furnishes and finishes to provide meals of the highest quality.
b. Space between each table shall be at least one meter.
c. Sufficient number of insect traps shall be provided for each kitchen in all dining halls.
d. Appropriate place for handwashing in sufficient numbers in dining hall shall be fitted with
soap and disinfectants.
e. Surface of food preparation tables shall be washable and cleanable steel.
f. Ensure the minimum space to be provided, at least 1.25 m² of space per guest.
6.8 Leisure and General Facilities

The accommodation facility must have adequate leisure and general facilities.
a. Sufficient communal areas to be provided both outdoor and indoor.
b. Recreation facility gym shall be a separate building from games building to service 5,000
users and averages a total built-up area of 1,900m2.
c. Facilities will house support commerce or retails to cater for the daily needs of all users
living and working within camps facilities with a built-up area of 1700 m2 for 5000 workers.
d. High speed open internet services shall be provided free of charge in accordance with
NEOM service provider’s highest operating service with wireless access throughout the
accommodation.
e. On-Site Grocery Store with a non-cash payment, where access to local stores by foot is
more than 10-minute walk.
6.9 Laundry Services

Suitable laundry facilities must be provided to all workers within the accommodation
that includes both uniforms and personal clothing.
Laundry service shall ensure that:
a. A room designated for washing clothes, equipped with a washing machine, hot and cold
water, and a place for draining water.
b. Provision of indoor drying facilities for clothes, to avoid workers hanging clothes outside.

6.10 Lighting
The accommodation must have adequate lighting to ensure safe operation of the facility
and must provide residents with sufficient levels of lighting for them to be able to
conduct leisure activities and necessary domestic duties within the facility.
a. Intact lights shall be provided in all rooms of residential units.
b. Complete indoor lighting system shall be provided for the indoor spaces of the project to
provide comfort, feeling of ease and enhance occupant’s well-being.
c. Emergency lighting of stairways, corridors and passageways that lead to the public ways
to provide initial illumination that is not less than an average of 11 lux and, at any point,
not less than 1 lux, measured along the path of egress at floor level. Emergency lighting
shall be available for 90 minutes immediately after the power failure in accordance with
SBC 801 and shall consist of storage batteries unit equipment installed in a centralized or
distributed way.
6.11 Sanitary Drainage

All residential buildings must be supplied with a sanitary drainage system that is
compliant with the regulations of the local municipality and the laws of the KSA.
a. All Buildings and outdoor features/ amenities shall have grading, drainage, and
stormwater management systems including swales, ditches, piping, and manholes to
avoid any ponding, stagnation and damage to the property and assets
6.12 Water Supply

Adequate water supply must be available in the accommodation facility.
a. Chilled Drinking water fountains shall be provided in all public areas.

b. Laboratory analysis of water shall be carried out at least once a year to check its safety for
human consumption. A record shall be kept stating the water analysis results from
approved laboratories.
6.13 Hot and Cold-Water Supply

Sufficient hot and cold-water supply is available in the accommodation facility at all
times.
a. Water distributed for domestic services shall be pressurized, regulated, and maintained
throughout the building to meet acceptable levels as recommended by the SBC/
International Plumbing Code (“IPC”); minimum 175kPa and maximum 475kPa at water
outlets.
b. Domestic hot water shall be provided to the entire lavatories, showers, kitchens, and
laundry sinks.
c. Stored water for domestic use shall be provided with proper chlorination system so as to
avoid carriage of legionella or bacteria and sand filters for water filtration.

6.14 Drinking Water
Adequate drinking water supply must be available to the accommodation facility, and it
conforms to local requirements.
a. Drinking water shall be provided in sufficient quantities from a secure health source, whether
through public or other network, and shall be fit for human consumption and conforming with
Saudi Standard Specifications No. (701/2000M) pertaining to water drinking.
b. Water tanks should be well maintained, in a clean condition and properly covered. Cleaning
and sanitizing floor and upper water tanks at least once a year and maintain a proof of the
same.
c. Water analysis shall be determined by contractor to take the necessary measures with
regard to suitable water treatment needed for the project to meet local authorities and World
Health Organization (WHO) water composition standards.
d. Water coolers in every bedroom, with cups for each resident.
e. All drinking water shall be monitored for supply levels and quality (automated and/or
manual).
6.15 Electricity Supply

Supply of electricity must be strictly in accordance with local requirements
a. Demonstrate safety requirements are met according to the instructions of the Civil Defense.
b. Electrical rooms shall be provided with 2- hour rated enclosure with portable fire
extinguishers.
c. Electricity sockets are intact and firmly covered with no apparent or exposed wires.
d. Electrical connections are unexposed, intact and firmly covered.
6.16 Gas Supply

Gas supply must be designed in accordance with civil defense requirements.
a. LPG system installed for the accommodation shall comply with the below requirements:
i. LPG plant shall be located in a designated plot.
ii. The plant site shall be designed to prevent unauthorized access and sufficient space
shall be allowed for all routine maintenance activities.
iii. The plant area shall be fenced for security.
iv. The plant area shall be illuminated by flood lamps installed at high level.
v. All separations between equipment, tanks, and adjacent buildings or routes shall
comply with NFPA 58.
vi. Ensure equipping the plant with gas detectors and a transmitter to shut the supply
valves in case of a gas leak.

6.17 Firefighting Systems, Alarms, and Public Address Systems
The firefighting prevention, detection, and alarm systems, including the monitors,
electric installations and sprinkler systems are designed and installed in accordance
with the law.
a. All Buildings shall be equipped with fire detection, smoke detection, suppression,
protection equipment, signage, warnings as per NFPA requirements.
b. Fire detection system shall consist of fully automatic addressable fire detectors like smoke
and heat detectors and manual fire alarm boxes.
c. IP-based Public Address (PA) system shall provide the ability to distribute intelligible, loud,
and uniform audio signals to set groups of speakers or zones in public areas and shall
offer “zoned” and “all call” paging as required.
d. The CCTV system shall be in accordance with NEOM Security Requirements and
acceptable to NEOM IT and NEOM Security.
e. Surveillance cameras must be available at all entrances to the residence, operating

throughout the day with the possibility of keeping the registration for a period of no less
than a month.
f. The contractor to provide security guards for collective housing for individuals outside the
urban area and on the outskirts of cities.
6.18 Firefighting Equipment and Emergency Exits

Firefighting equipment and emergency exits must be provided in accordance with
local regulatory requirements to effectively assist in the fighting of any outbreak of
fire and to expedite the successful evacuation of residents from an area where fire
has broken out.
a. All fire system designs shall be certified by NEOM approved qualified third party/ agency in
accordance with the Civil Defense. All fire systems construction/ installations shall be
certified by NEOM approved qualified third party/ agency in accordance with the Civil
Defense authorities. Access for fire engines must be considered throughout all the camp
accommodation and building facilities
b. Exit signs shall be ceiling or wall mounted, single or double faced as required, engraved in
both English and Arabic, illuminated and provided with graphical legends and arrows
pointing in exit direction
c. Emergency Central Battery System (ECBS) shall be utilized to provide the backup power
supply to lighting fixtures illuminating means of egress and emergency lighting.
d. Provide backup power for critical facilities only, such as kitchen, mess hall, medical facilities,
security systems.

6.19 Medical Services
Adequate medical services must be included within the accommodation facilities and
provided with professionally trained staff, equipment, and medical supplies.
a. The residence operator shall provide a first aid room for emergency cases, which shall
contain the basic life safety equipment.
b. A qualified health practitioner with certificate in handling first aid materials and fast-tracking
measurement equipment, such as thermometers, shall work in such a room.
c. An adequate number of staff/workers are trained to provide first aid.
d. Healthcare facility to be provided for every 5,000 workers as per the requirements of NEOM.
e. Isolation room shall be provided for residents who exhibit symptoms of sickness.
f. Isolation ward should be provided with a decontamination zone outside.
g. All medical services shall be provided in accordance with the KSA Ministry of Health and
NEOM and the approved medical services providers.
h. An adequate number of first aid kits are available in the accommodation facility (at least one
on every floor) and adequately stocked. A first aid box distributed throughout the housing.
i. An adequate number of first aid kits shall be installed across various locations sufficient to
the number of residents.
j. First aid kits are adequately stocked. 24/7 first aid service/facility shall be available.
k. Provide training to a number of residents on first aid procedures for emergency cases with
approved certificates (two people for each property trained in first aid and CPR
management).
l. The facility has an approved urgent care facility. These may require the provision of 2
ambulances with GSM/Satellite telephone, and smart zone radio communications
capabilities. One of the ambulances should have a 4x4 drive.
6.20 Public Health Hazards

To provide and manage process controls to deter any spread of any health hazards
in the accommodation.
a. An agreement/contract to provide cleanliness, maintenance, operation, sterilization and

control of insects and rodents in all housing facilities, including sewage wells every six
months shall be in place.
b. An agreement/contract with pest and rodent control company to disinfect the real estate at
least every 3 months and submit proof of the same shall be in place.
6.21 Waste Disposal

a. The operator shall clean and maintain all residence facilities or contract with an operation
and maintenance company and submit proof of the same.
b. Develop special arrangements for the collection and management of various wastes
generated from the use of housing provided to individuals, in accordance with the health
rules in force in the field of waste treatment.

6.22 Health, Safety and Security
The accommodation facility shall develop and implement an efficient health, safety,
and security measures to prevent any incident to risk to the residents, guarding
against theft, trespassing, and damage to the property.
a. A specific fire safety plan must be prepared. The plan must include training of fire marshals
(1 per 50 residents), periodic inspection, testing and maintenance of fire safety equipment,
fire safety inspections and periodic drills.
b. Security surveillance cameras or guards shall be provided.
c. Blue fire extinguisher (dry powder) shall at least be provided for each residential unit.
6.23 Accommodation Management

a. The worker accommodation shall have a named Accommodation Manager with official
duties specific to the oversight and management of the facility.
b. The Accommodation Manager maintains a residents register in a software system with

‘check-in / check-out’ records available for inspection or export to Excel.
c. The number of individuals in the housing should not, in any way, exceed the specified
building capacity.
d. The Employer shall provide and maintain an employee notice board, one for each of the
major languages including English and Arabic, with regular updates on H&S, Worker
Welfare and Accommodation Rules.
e. Accommodation Rules shall include:
i. Cleanliness of areas
ii. Prohibitions (Alcohol, smoking, cooking)
iii. Use of storage facilities
iv. Tampering with the building equipment
v. Waste disposal
vi. Water & Energy preservation
vii. Unsocial behaviours (e.g. loud music, spitting, etc.)
viii. Visitor Policy
f. The Employer shall provide and maintain an employee suggestion box to collect
anonymous communications from their employees, providing sufficient tools and training
to workers.
g. The Employer shall maintain a complaints book at the worker accommodation for its
residents and maintain a system of management to track and monitor all entries to close-
out.

h. The Employer shall create and deliver a new resident on boarding presentation and
maintain records of all named residents that have attended. Following topics must be
covered:
i. House rules
ii. Proper use of services and facilities, recreational activities
iii. Personal hygiene, diseases
iv. Waste disposal
v. Preventing pollution
vi. Pest control
vii. Fire prevention and proper use of firefighting equipment
viii. Responsibilities during emergencies.
i. The person-in-charge of managing the accommodation must have a specific duty to report
to NEOM the eruption of any contagious diseases, food poisoning and other important
casualties.
j. Regular calendar of social events shall be provided

7. Transportation and Vehicle Safety
Large vehicles used in the transportation of more than six workers must have
sufficient equipment to ensure comfort of the passengers and also assist in preventing
accidents and injuries while travelling.
a. Drivers must be licenced in accordance with road transport authority requirements.

b. The vehicle must be air-conditioned.
c. All seats within the vehicle must have seat belts.
d. Smoking inside the vehicle must be prohibited and this requirement must be clearly
displayed.
e. The vehicle must have a first-aid kit with easy access in a clearly visible location.
f. The vehicle must have appropriate number of fire extinguishers.
g. The emergency exits in the vehicle must be indicated with clearly lit signs.
h. The vehicle must have hammers to break the windows in case of an emergency.
i. Vehicles must have external lighting to help show its dimensions.
j. The maximum number of passengers allowed must be clearly displayed on the outside
of the vehicle.
k. Vehicle Operator must have a system to ensure that its vehicles are regularly
maintained and road worthy.
l. Vehicles must be subject to annual inspection by the competent local authority.
m. All bus waiting shelters, at the accommodation, shall be covered.

NEOM Worker Welfare Minimum Standard - R01.01

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

NEOM Worker Welfare Minimum Standard - R01.01

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

NEOM Worker Welfare Minimum Standard - R01.01

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

STANDARD

WORKER WELFARE MINIMUM STANDARD

NEOM-NDC-STD-001 Rev 01.01, November 2022

©NEOM [2022]. All rights reserved.

Rev 01.00 First Issue Issued for Implementation 30 Oct 2022

Rev 01.01 Minor Corrections For Update to Contractors 15 Nov 2022

Name Marwah Alofi / ETSD Team AbuJahed (AJ) Ahad

Job Title Eng. Project Management ETSD

DOCUMENT CODE : NEOM-NDC-STD-001 REVISION : 01 PAGE 2 OF 27

©NEOM [2022]. All rights reserved.

2 DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS ................................................................... 7

4 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES .......................................................................... 9

5 EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES ................................................................................ 10

6. GROUP LABOR ACCOMMODATION................................................................... 16

DOCUMENT CODE : NEOM-NDC-STD-001 REVISION : 01 PAGE 3 OF 27

©NEOM [2022]. All rights reserved.

7. TRANSPORTATION AND VEHICLE SAFETY ...................................................... 27

DOCUMENT CODE : NEOM-NDC-STD-001 REVISION : 01 PAGE 4 OF 27

©NEOM [2022]. All rights reserved.

DOCUMENT CODE : NEOM-NDC-STD-001 REVISION : 01 PAGE 5 OF 27

©NEOM [2022]. All rights reserved.

DOCUMENT CODE : NEOM-NDC-STD-001 REVISION : 01 PAGE 6 OF 27

©NEOM [2022]. All rights reserved.

Accommodation A building or group of buildings designated for housing employees of

Contractor Contractor or Service Provider directly appointed by NEOM to deliver

OCP Other Contracting Parties, means any subcontractor, consultant, Labor

DOCUMENT CODE : NEOM-NDC-STD-001 REVISION : 01 PAGE 7 OF 27

©NEOM [2022]. All rights reserved.

Subcontractor or Any party or subsidiary appointed by an employer to perform work on the

DOCUMENT CODE : NEOM-NDC-STD-001 REVISION : 01 PAGE 8 OF 27

©NEOM [2022]. All rights reserved.

Document no. Document Title

Part 1: Design & Construction NEOM Employers Requirements

3.2 Other Documents

Articles as referenced within this document KSA Labor Law

SBC as referenced within this document Saudi Building Codes (SBC)

First Edition - October 2021G Manual of Group Housing for Individuals

4 Roles and Responsibilities

DOCUMENT CODE : NEOM-NDC-STD-001 REVISION : 01 PAGE 9 OF 27

©NEOM [2022]. All rights reserved.

5.2 Employment Offer

b. The employment offer meets all legal requirements:

DOCUMENT CODE : NEOM-NDC-STD-001 REVISION : 01 PAGE 10 OF 27

©NEOM [2022]. All rights reserved.

5.3 Worker’s Onboarding

5.4 Employment Contract

DOCUMENT CODE : NEOM-NDC-STD-001 REVISION : 01 PAGE 11 OF 27

©NEOM [2022]. All rights reserved.

i. provides all workers equal opportunity regardless of any demographics.

b. All workers must be in possession of their personal documents, including:

iii. Saudi ID card (KSA Labor Law Article 40).

iv. health insurance (free of charge).

DOCUMENT CODE : NEOM-NDC-STD-001 REVISION : 01 PAGE 12 OF 27

©NEOM [2022]. All rights reserved.

5.6 Payment of Workers

c. Workers must be compensated if they work on a rest day.

e. The Contractor must keep a wage register.

5.7 Summer Working Norms