MoL urges petrol stations to enhance summer break

MUSCAT, JULY1
The Ministry of Labour has urged petrol stations operating across the Sultanate of Oman to implement necessary precautionary and relief measures for workers during the summer months, in line with the ongoing mid-day work break regulations from June 1 to August 31.
Although petrol station operations do not fall under the categories covered by the mid-day work ban (12:30 pm to 3:30 pm), authorities have emphasised that employers must ensure adequate protection for staff working in harsh outdoor conditions, where heat stress is intensified by vehicle emissions, fuel vapours, and continuous exposure to sunlight.
Officials noted that petrol station workers face a dual risk during the summer — severe heat exhaustion from prolonged exposure to high temperatures and an increased risk of fire hazards due to volatile fuel vapours. The ministry stressed that safety measures must be strengthened to safeguard workers during peak summer conditions.
A senior official from the Ministry of Labour said petrol stations are required to ensure essential welfare provisions for employees on duty, including proper heat management systems, routine maintenance of equipment, and strict adherence to fuel handling and safety protocols.
“Although work at petrol stations is not included under the mid-day break categories, companies are urged to provide basic necessities for workers, along with a rigorous heat management plan. This includes ensuring adequate shaded rest areas, sufficient drinking water, and structured work rotations, especially during peak afternoon hours,” the official said.
He further emphasised that stations must maintain adequate staffing levels to allow workers to take turns and minimise continuous exposure to extreme heat.
A comprehensive heat stress management plan, he added, should be in place at all stations to prevent heat-related illnesses and ensure worker well-being throughout the summer.
“Provision of rest shelters, hydration facilities, and proper nutrition support such as protein intake should be considered essential parts of workplace safety during this period,” he added.
Workers at petrol stations also expressed concern over challenging summer conditions.
“Working at petrol stations is strenuous, and summer makes it even more difficult during the day. Some of us are working overtime due to staff shortages and are exposed to harsh weather,” said a petrol station employee.
“We sincerely look forward to proper resting shelters, flexible working arrangements, and some relief during peak hours.
This instruction from the Ministry of Labour will hopefully make a real difference,” another worker added.
According to available estimates, there are approximately 650 to 680 active petrol stations across Oman, including independent outlets and larger retail networks. These stations employ an average of two to five workers each.
The sector is primarily dominated by three major fuel marketing companies — Al Maha Petroleum Products Marketing Company, Oman Oil Marketing Company, and Shell Oman Marketing Company — along with several smaller independent operators.
Muscat Governorate hosts the largest number of stations, estimated between 169 and 215, followed by Al Batinah North with around 169 stations and Dhofar with 63 to 73 stations. Smaller independent stations are also distributed across other governorates of Oman.
The ministry reiterated that employers must take extra precautions during the peak summer period to protect workers from heat-related risks and ensure safe, humane working conditions across all fuel stations.