Governments in the UAE have already stated that the midday work ban and new safety regulations will be renewed once temperatures rise during the summer, indicating that all measures should be taken to prevent heat-related illnesses by both employers and employees.
To curb labour in the open spaces (under the sun), the annual campaign that aims at protecting the outdoor workers will restrict labour to the hottest afternoons (that is, the hottest three months of the summer period), and that is between 12.30 pm and 3 pm.
Worker safety is an issue in focus.
They again stressed that one of the main activities in ensuring the health and safety of workers, mainly in the construction and other outdoor industries, is the midday break.
The employers are also required to arrange the shade of the rest area in addition to providing enough drinking water and cooling measures in the working area.
The authorities stressed that it is important to comply with the rules and non-compliance is punishable with fines and other penalties.
Directives were brought out regarding extreme heat
In addition to the work ban, the authorities have suggested a series of guidelines to enable the workers and residents to endure the increasing temperatures.
These include:
- Remaining hydrated in the day.
- Shading: Not exposing oneself to direct sunlight.
- Filling light breathable clothes.
- Arranging outdoor activities at cooler times.
Medical professionals also recommend that people pay attention to heat exhaustion (that is, dizziness, fatigue and dehydration) symptoms.
Inspections and monitoring
The police are supposed to conduct routine checks on construction sites to check whether companies are adhering to the midday work ban.
Authorities reported that the previously used enforcement campaigns related to the same have achieved high compliance rates, with the majority of companies adopting new working schedules and safety measures.
Hotlines and reporting channels will also be provided to workers to voice concerns or report violations.
Public awareness campaigns
In accompaniment of the enforcement, recently, an awareness campaign has been carried out to educate both the employers and the rest of the general population with respect to heat safety.
These attempts are to reduce the chances of overheating, particularly when it is the most scorching season in summer, when temperatures may reach 45 C in some areas.
Support for workers
The government has encouraged businesses to put employee well-being first by installing first-aid clinics and ensuring that employees have a rapid response in the event of accidents.
Citizens have also been advised to watch out for delivery workers and outdoor workers, particularly during the hottest times of the day.
A long-term seasonal measure
The midday labour prohibition is not a new program in the UAE. Still, it has been repeatedly implemented in the country in terms of the necessary measures to enhance the status of labour conditions in the summer.
As the temperatures keep increasing, authorities stressed that compliance with precautionary measures is paramount to avoid heat stress and ensure the safety of the workplace.
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