Islamabad: Starting Saturday, June 15, Saudi Arabia will enforce a ban on working under direct sunlight for all private sector establishments from 12 pm to 3 pm. This initiative, led by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development in collaboration with the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, is designed to protect workers from potential health hazards associated with exposure to extreme heat.
The primary goal of this decision is to ensure the safety and well-being of private sector workers by providing a safe and healthy work environment that aligns with global occupational safety and health standards. The ministry has urged employers to adjust working hours in compliance with this ban to help create a safer work environment, enhance preventive measures, and reduce the incidence of occupational injuries and diseases. This adjustment is expected to lead to improved worker safety, fewer accidents, and increased productivity.
To assist employers and workers in adhering to the new regulations, the ministry has published the 'Procedural Guide for Occupational Safety and Health to Prevent the Effects of Sun Exposure and Heat Stress' on its website. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to manage and mitigate the risks associated with working in hot conditions.
Furthermore, any violations of the ban on working under direct sunlight can be reported by calling the ministry's unified number, 19911, or through the ministry's mobile app, which is available on smartphones. This reporting system is intended to ensure that the new regulations are strictly followed, thereby protecting the health and safety of workers throughout the country.