The government has announced that from June 15 until September 15 all work performed in the open air will be banned between the hours of 12:30pm and 3pm.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation made the announcement on Twitter today.
Starting 15 June, #MOHRE will begin implementing the decision banning work performed under the sun & in open places from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM, until 15 Sep. MOHRE appreciates the strategic partnership with the private sector in implanting the decision and achieving its objectives. pic.twitter.com/RdDBexYtrF
— MOHRE_UAE وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) June 2, 2021
Each summer, employers are required to provide workers with a shaded area to rest during the hottest hours of the day.
Companies are exempt if their work must continue during these hours, for example while repairing damaged water or petrol pipes.
However, employers who are exempt from the midday break hours must provide cool drinking water as well as items such as salt and lemons for their workers in accordance with health and safety regulations.
Companies that break the rules face fines of Dh5,000 ($1,360) per worker, or up to a maximum of Dh50,000. Depending on the severity of the breach, the company could also have its status downgraded by the ministry.
An announcement outlining the temporary hours, written in both Arabic and a language the workers understand, must be placed in a communal area.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any violations of the temporary rule by calling 80060.
