MUSCAT: The Ministry of Labour (MoL) has announced a ban on mid-day work for labourers who work at construction sites and other open-air areas exposed to high temperatures from today (June 1), as the temperatures rose nearly 50 degree Celsius and a heat wave is affecting many parts of the country.
The annual midday work ban is valid from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm during the months of June, July and August in view of occupational safety and to protect the workers from environmental hazards. Companies also advised to provide shaded rest areas, cold water, cooling devices, and first aid during the break.
Article 16 of the Oman Labour Law and Ministry of Labour Decision 286/2008 indicates that companies and individuals violating the rule shall face fines from RO 500 to RO 1,000 depending upon the nature of the violation and annulment of the project licence in case of repeated violation.
However, there are exemptions for essential services like airport, port operations and emergency utilities, but they need prior approval and strict safety measures like shade, water, and staff rotation, a representative from the Ministry of Labour said.
“The mid-day break for outdoor workers comes into force on June 01 and companies are urged to adhere to the guidelines. Having said that, there are a few technical exceptions like asphalt/concrete work that can’t be postponed, or emergency repairs. But for most outdoor jobs, work must stop at 12.30 pm failing which, legal actions will be initiated against the offenders,” he said.
Mid-day work ban violations can be reported on 80077000.
HARSH SUMMER
Meanwhile, the country is witnessing one of its harshest early summer heat spells, making outdoor expeditions near to impossible.
A data released by meteorological stations of Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) indicates that Saham recorded the highest temperature in the country over the last 24 hours at a scorching 48.6°C, while several other regions crossed 46°C and 47°C, signalling the intensity of the ongoing heatwave.
Areas including Al Kamil W'al Wafi (47.9°C), Suhar (47.7°C), Fahud (47.4°C), Al Rustaq (47.3°C), and Dima W'attayeen (47.1°C) experienced severe daytime heat, highlighting how extreme temperatures are affecting both coastal and inland regions.
The CAA also reported exceptionally high readings in Muscat, with Bausher experiencing temperatures of 46.9°C, while Al Amerat recorded 46.8°C. Temperatures in Al Awabi in Al Batinah South and Sunaynah in Al Buraimi both reached 46.6°C, with Nakhal, also in Al Batinah South, reporting 46.5°C.
The CAA has issued precautionary measures for those who venture out of their homes or offices to protect themselves during this severe early summer heatwave.
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