Comply with summer ban to ensure workers’ safety

Labour and Social Development Minister Jameel Humaidan has called on all companies and private sector institutions to comply with the decision to ban open-air work from noon to 4 pm in July and August. The ministry introduced the ban in 2013 and has pledged a strict zero tolerance policy towards those who do not comply with it. “The ban aims to protect workers and ensure their safety from the risks of sunstrokes and various summer diseases and reduce occupational accidents,” Humaidan said one week ahead of the implementation of the decision. “The ministry seeks to provide a safe and secure work environment according to safety standards to promote occupational health and reduce injuries in compliance with international conventions.” The minister lauded the commitment of the majority of employers and their institutions with the decision over the past years, saying that it reached 98 per cent. Such a figure reflects the belief of most employers in the importance of occupational safety and health measures as well as their understanding of the humanitarian and economic objectives of the decision, he added.