Authorities have introduced a midday outdoor work ban in the UAE. Beginning from Monday, 15th June, the ban forbids outdoor work under direct sunlight and in open-air areas between 12.30 pm and 3 pm until Tuesday, 15th September, as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
The midday outdoor work ban is implemented annually and is part of the UAE’s efforts to provide a safer working environment for workers in various sectors such as construction, who often sustain heat-related injuries during the summer.
What You Should Know About the Ban
The UAE’s midday outdoor work ban is also often referred to as the Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy. Under the ban, firms must offer shaded rest areas for workers outdoors during aforementioned timing of 12.30 pm to 3 pm, when the heat is at its strongest, as well as fans, adequate drinking water and any other hydration supplies.
Companies violating the ban may be penalised with fines of AED 5,000 for each worker involved in the situation. Fine may go up to a maximum of AED 50,000 if multiple workers are found to have been affected.
However, some activities where work cannot be paused due to technical reasons will remain exempt from these restrictions, such as asphalt paving, concrete pouring, and any emergency services for essential facilities like water flow, electricity and traffic management. Exemptions also apply to types of work which need permits from specialised government authorities owing to any impact on public life and movement.
The authority has also announced the provision of over 12,000 air-conditioned and fully equipped rest stations for delivery service workers across the UAE throughout the three-month period of the ban.
With summer continuing, temperatures across the UAE have been rising rapidly, often exceeding 45 degrees Celsius in many parts of the country. Coastal areas like Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai are also particularly affected by high levels of humidity. Amidst these conditions, the outdoor work ban at midday comes as a highly important initiative.
Read more Ras Al Khaimah news and updates here.