A new compulsory scheme to compensate the effects of employment accidents and occupational diseases has been established in Tunisia by an Act of February 1994, which came into force in January 1995. Administration of the scheme is entrusted to the National Social Security Fund. Previously, employers were required to take out insurance against this contingency through private insurance schemes.

The Act defines "employment accidents" and "occupational diseases" and specifies the compensation and the beneficiaries of such compensation.

Victims of employment accidents and occupational diseases are entitled, among other benefits, to the necessary health care and daily benefits to compensate loss of earnings.

Public servants and workers in family enterprises are excluded from the scope of the Act (unless the latter explicitly opt for it to be applied to them).

The Act also introduces an employment injury card ("priority card"), as well as a system for the prevention of occupational risks.

Sanctions are established (such as fines for any employer who fails to comply with the obligation to adhere to the national fund covering employment accidents and occupational diseases) and any earlier measures which are contrary to Act are repealed.

Reference: Loi no 94-28 du 21 février 1994, portant régime de réparation des préjudices résultant des accidents du travail et des maladies professionnelles.

Legislation date: 21.02.1994

Implementation date: 01.01.1995