Summer work ban a huge success: Minister

Manama : Ninety-eight per cent of companies and establishments complied with the afternoon outdoor work ban that prevented forcing labourers to work under the scorching heat of the summer sun from noon to 4 pm, Minister of Labour Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan said yesterday.

Commenting on the end of the outdoor work ban for this summer, he said more than 150,000 workers benefited from the measures aimed at protecting workers and ensuring safety at various work sites out of its interest in preserving human rights.

He pointed out that the implementation of Edict 3 of 2013 banning outdoor afternoon work reflects the employers’ high awareness, lauding the companies’ full cooperation, positive response and understanding of the noble values of human life.The compliance rate of 98 pc indicates their keenness to protect workers and ensure their safety, which, he said, reflects respect for human rights, he said adding that Bahrain’s advanced strides in this regard have been welcomed and by international organisations. He highlighted the importance of enhancing cooperation between the Ministry of Labour and the private sector to develop the work environment, avoid occupational accidents as much as possible and increase productivity and profits of companies.