With the summer becoming harsher, the Ministry of Labour has implemented the policy of halting work in open sites, especially construction related work, during midday from June 1 till the end of August.
The objective is to prevent heat stress among the workers. According to the Met Office, areas along the coasts of the Sea of Oman and desert regions are expected to experience high temperatures ranging from the mid to late 40°C. They have cautioned against direct sunlight exposure at noon to prevent sunstroke and heat exhaustion.
The Ministry of Labour is making efforts to educate private sector establishments about the noon work stoppage policy. The General Directorate of Labour in the Al Batinah South Governorate has conducted awareness visits to construction sites and provided informational leaflets in multiple languages.
The work stoppage will be in effect from 12:30 pm until 3:30 pm. The ministry warned that violators may face an administrative penalty of a fine of RO 500.
Heat stress occurs when the body temperature is elevated due to prolonged exposure to physical stress in high temperatures. Heatstroke, a more severe form of heat injury, can occur if the body temperature reaches 40°C or higher. This condition is more common during the summer months.
Heatstroke can rapidly damage the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles if left untreated. Delaying treatment increases the severity of the damage, potentially leading to death or a higher risk of complications.
Reports published on the Step to Health and New Scientist websites provide advice for dealing with heat stress. Those suffering from heat stress should be moved to a cool place, given plenty of water and other fluids to stay hydrated, and replace tight clothing with loose garments.
“The ministry is committed to monitoring private sector establishments and taking legal action against violators. Inspection campaigns will be intensified on work sites to ensure compliance with the noon work ban during the summer period,” said a source in the ministry.
The Ministerial Resolution No. 286/2008 of Oman's Labour Law, prohibit the employment of workers on construction sites or in open areas with high temperatures from twelve thirty until three thirty during the months of June, July, and August each year. The ministry emphasises its zero-tolerance policy towards any violations in this regard.
These regulations align with international labour principles and standards, particularly those related to occupational safety and health.
Implementing the noon work stoppage will contribute to establishing a healthy and safe work environment, enhance labour relations, increase productivity, and reduce occupational accidents resulting from heat stress. This policy will have a positive impact on a wide range of workers.
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