ABU DHABI: The United Arab Emirates has reaffirmed its annual ban on outdoor work during peak afternoon hours as part of measures to protect workers from extreme summer heat.
According to Pakistan’s Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment, the midday work ban remains in effect from June 15 to September 15, prohibiting work in open areas and under direct sunlight between 12:30pm and 3:00pm.
The regulation is being enforced for the 22nd consecutive year to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and injuries while ensuring a safer working environment for employees.
Under the rules, employers are required to provide workers with shaded rest areas during the restricted hours, along with cooling equipment such as fans, an adequate supply of drinking water, and other essential hydration facilities.
Certain activities are exempt from the ban where work cannot be postponed due to technical or operational reasons. These include asphalt paving and concrete pouring that cannot be delayed beyond the restricted hours, as well as emergency maintenance work necessary to restore water, electricity and traffic services.
Projects that require special permits from the relevant authorities due to their impact on public life and transportation may also qualify for exemptions.
Companies found violating the regulations will face a fine of AED 5,000 per worker, with the total penalty capped at AED 50,000 if multiple employees are affected.
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