Muscat: The Ministry of Labour has stated it is prohibited to employ workers in construction sites or exposed areas with high temperatures during the afternoon from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm during June, July, and August.
The ministry called upon all private sector establishments to cooperate and comply with this procedure, which comes within the efforts to enhance a safe work environment and reduce injuries associated with high temperatures.
Article 16 of the Ministry of Labour decision 286/2008 bars outdoor workers from working in high temperatures for three months, with working hours usually split between two shifts.
The Ministry of Labour has mandated all construction sites and open areas to suspend work during midday hours to ensure the protection of workers.
A campaign is underway in all governorates by officials of the ministry to raise awareness among workers and employers about the dangers of heat stress during the summer, and the necessity of taking preventive measures to maintain the health and safety of workers, especially in open work sites exposed to direct sunlight.
The special provisions for workers include the provision of air-conditioned rest areas, rescheduling of physically demanding tasks to cooler hours, and implementing a rotational system where employees work for 45 minutes followed by a 15-minute break.
The ministry is actively engaged in community awareness campaigns to discourage refuelling during the midday period unless necessary.
Violations may incur fines of up to RO500 and a maximum imprisonment period of one month or a combination of both penalties.
Reports on non-compliant establishments can be submitted via phone or through the ministry's websites, and the specialised team properly verifies the claims and undertakes the requisite actions.
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