MUSCAT: The Ministry of Labour (MoL) has initiated a comprehensive inspection campaign to enforce the mid-day break rule for outdoor workers which commenced from June 1 till August 31.
From June 1, all construction, facilities management, maintenance, and other worksites where individuals are employed in open areas between 12:30 pm and 3:30 pm will be closely monitored to prevent any violations of the Labour Law.
Engineer Zakariya bin Khamis al Saadi, Director of the Occupational Health Section at the Ministry of Labour, emphasised the strict measures in place to enforce the mid-day break rule at work premises. According to Section 118 of the Law, individuals found in breach of the mid-day break regulation may face penalties ranging from a fine of RO 100 to RO 500, imprisonment for up to one month, or both, depending on the severity and frequency of the offense.
Al Saadi further explained that the implementation of this law is vital due to the common occurrence of heat stress in Oman, particularly during the summer months when temperatures exceed 43°C. Heat stress arises when the body struggles to regulate its internal temperature, leading to a range of symptoms including fatigue, nausea, headache, dizziness and dehydration.
The Ministry of Labour has outlined specific requirements under Ministerial Decision No 286/2008, which apply to all workplaces in Oman:
Employers must provide their employees with adequate breaks and rest periods during the hottest parts of the day.
Employers must ensure that workers have access to cool drinking water and shaded rest areas.
Employers must provide their workers with appropriate protective clothing and equipment.
Employers must conduct regular medical check-ups on their workers.
Employers must provide training and awareness programmes to their workers.
Employers must take special care to protect vulnerable workers from heat stress, such as pregnant women, by minimising their exposure to high temperatures.
Al Saadi highlighted that exceptions to this law exist for companies specialised in oil and gas, essential services, and similar sectors. However, these companies must submit a written application to the Ministry of Labour to obtain an exemption permit. Ministerial Decision No 322/2011 provides detailed information on the sectors and conditions for such exceptions.
Companies requiring employees to work in open areas during the prohibited hours must apply for an exemption permit at least two weeks prior to the proposed start date. The application should include:
Company details, including name, address, and contact information.
A statement explaining the reasons for the exemption request.
A description of the work to be conducted during the prohibited hours.
A comprehensive plan ensuring the safety and well-being of employees working during the prohibited hours.
A list of employees, their job titles, and duties, who will be working during the prohibited hours.
Al Saadi reiterated that companies allowing their staff to work outdoors should provide an adequate supply of cold drinking water based on the number of workers, a shaded sitting area near the work site (in open spaces) enclosed on all four sides, furnished and equipped with air conditioning appropriate for the number of workers, and first aid boxes with necessary supplies. Additionally, at least 10 per cent of the total number of employees at each location should be trained in basic first aid and CPR.
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