The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has announced that today, Monday, September 15, marks the final day of the “Heat Stress Protection Policy” campaign for this year. This initiative, which began on June 15, was launched in collaboration with both the public and private sectors, achieving a compliance rate of 99% among companies that adhered to the prohibition of work under direct sunlight and in open areas daily from 12:30 PM to 3 PM during the campaign period.
Mohsen Ali Al-Nassi, the Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection and Compliance, stated that the implementation of the “Heat Stress Protection Policy” for the 21st consecutive year highlights the government’s commitment to a humanitarian approach in the labor market, including policies designed to protect workers. This forms part of an integrated framework aimed at ensuring a safe working environment that aligns with the best practices and safety regulations, thereby preventing injuries and health issues arising from working in high temperatures during the summer months.
He emphasized that the private sector’s commitment to this policy reflects an awareness of its positive impacts on the health and safety of workers, particularly in the summer months. This has become a well-established practice among businesses in the country and is a priority for them to ensure worker protection in accordance with health and safety standards.
In turn, Dalaal Al-Shuhi, the Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Labor Protection, acknowledged the efforts of the ministry’s partners from both sectors, as well as community members, in executing the “Heat Stress Protection Policy” campaign through various initiatives. This reinforces the importance placed on labor rights in the UAE, recognizing workers as key partners in sustainable development, enhancing the country’s leadership, and achieving its ambitious economic goals, as well as upholding social responsibility and noble ethical values. The UAE has successfully cultivated a culture of protecting and promoting workers’ rights across different societal components by supporting worker safety, developing social protection frameworks, and enhancing policies and legislation to ensure workers’ happiness and their participation in festivals and celebrations.
This year’s campaign provided over 10,000 air-conditioned rest areas equipped with comfort amenities for delivery workers across the country. Additionally, it included initiatives to offer refreshments and complete meal packages, as well as organizing awareness campaigns about the dangers of heat exhaustion in summer and conducting medical examinations for workers nationwide.
The “Heat Stress Protection Policy” imposed requirements on companies and employers to provide shaded areas for workers during work stoppage periods or while they engage in licensed activities. Employers are also obligated to supply appropriate cooling equipment, sufficient amounts of water, and hydration supplies such as electrolyte solutions as approved by local authorities, in addition to providing first aid kits at work sites.