Is a “Règlement Intérieur” mandatory in Moroccan companies with 10+ employees?

Yes — in Morocco, a “Règlement Intérieur” (internal work regulations) becomes mandatory for any company employing 10 or more employees. This is clearly required under the Moroccan Code du Travail (Labor Code). The purpose of this document is to formalize workplace rules, employee obligations, disciplinary measures, and health and safety standards. Without it, companies expose themselves to labor disputes, fines, and administrative sanctions.

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What is a “Règlement Intérieur”?

A “Règlement Intérieur” is an internal document that sets out the framework for how work is organized and employees’ rights and duties. It is not optional once your workforce exceeds 10 employees.

It usually covers:

• Work discipline (attendance, punctuality, sanctions for misconduct).
• Health and safety rules to ensure a safe working environment.
• Employee obligations (use of company property, confidentiality, etc.).
• Employer obligations (providing safe conditions, respect of labor rights).

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Legal Framework in Morocco

The obligation comes from Law n°65-99 (Moroccan Labor Code). Article 138 onwards stipulates that:

• Companies with 10 or more employees must establish a “Règlement Intérieur”.
• The document must be submitted for approval to the Labour Inspectorate (Inspection du Travail).
• It should also be shared with employee representatives and made accessible to all staff (posted in the workplace).

Why is it Mandatory?

Having a Règlement Intérieur is not just a bureaucratic formality. It provides:

1. Clarity – Employees know their rights and obligations.
2. Legal protection – Employers reduce risks of disputes.
3. Compliance – Avoids fines during labor inspections.
4. Workplace order – Provides clear disciplinary processes.

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Steps to Establish a Règlement Intérieur in Morocco

1. Draft the document – Covering all mandatory elements (discipline, health & safety, employee rights).
2. Consult employee representatives – Involve the staff delegates or works council.
3. Submit to Inspection du Travail – Obtain validation and approval.
4. Post and communicate – Display it in the workplace and give access to all employees.

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Consequences of Non-Compliance

If a company with more than 10 employees fails to have a Règlement Intérieur:

• They risk administrative fines.
• Labor disputes may easily turn against the employer.
• Lack of clear disciplinary framework makes sanctions legally unenforceable.

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Practical Tips for Employers

• Start preparing the Règlement Intérieur as soon as you approach 10 employees.
• Involve a legal advisor or HR consultant to ensure compliance.
• Review and update the document every few years or when laws change.
• Keep proof of submission and approval from the Labour Inspectorate.

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FAQs

1. Is a Règlement Intérieur mandatory for companies with fewer than 10 employees?

No. The obligation starts only at 10+ employees. However, small companies may still create one voluntarily for clarity.

2. Who approves the Règlement Intérieur?

The Labour Inspectorate (Inspection du Travail) must review and validate it before it takes effect.

3. What if an employer disciplines an employee without a Règlement Intérieur?

Sanctions may be considered invalid and the employer risks legal disputes or reinstatement claims.

4. Can the Règlement Intérieur be customized?

Yes. It must include mandatory elements, but employers can adapt it to their sector, provided it respects labor law.

5. How often should it be updated?

There is no strict timeline, but it should be revised whenever there are changes in labor laws or internal company policies.

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Conclusion

To answer clearly: Yes, a “Règlement Intérieur” is mandatory in Moroccan companies with 10+ employees. It is not just a legal requirement but also a practical tool for workplace harmony and risk reduction. Employers should prepare it early, seek validation from the Labour Inspectorate, and ensure employees are aware of its provisions.