Posted By Paul I Clark Andrew, If you visit the BuildsafeUAE web site http://www.buildsafeuae.com there is information in the focus group section on this subject. Also, a number of local 'requlations' have been posted for you to download. You need to sign up but it's free. It is possible for Safety Managers to be held by the police in prision for accidents on site and also in certain cases be liable to pay compensation/ blood money. Indeed, expats have had this happen, as well as lose their passport for a few months when the investigation is being undertaken. Also, in certain developement zones, i.e JAFZA or Nakheel, their own 'regulations' apply and their own safety departments/ regulators can fine the contractor as pretty much as they wish. Still, the UAE is working hard to fix these and other issues and are really moving forward.