Hat trick that keeps UAE workers cool in the sun

Since Ramadan began, 3,000 outdoor workers have received caps with solar-powered fans attached.

Dubai Municipality is distributing solar powered cooling hats for its outdoor workers. Photo courtesy Dubai Municipality
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DUBAI // Cooler heads are set to prevail among Dubai Municipality's outdoor workers after being given hats that have a fan powered by two solar panels mounted on the visor.

"We are always looking for ways to make it easy on the workers," said Abdul Majeed Saifaie, the director of the municipality Waste Management Department.

Distribution of the head gear to city cleaners began on the first day of Ramadan, when 3,000 caps were handed out.

"The department distributed the cooling hats for the workers whose working time is in the peak hours in the hot climate to reduce their stress and fatigue," said Mr Saifaie.

The hats are in addition to the midday break for outdoor workers between 12.30pm to 3pm that has been in force since June 14.

The law, which is strictly enforced by the Ministry of Labour through routine worksite inspections, is set to continue until September 15.

"Along with the mandatory midday break, this will help our employees endure the harsh climate," Mr Saifaie added.

The soft cap is "not the perfect solution but it will help those working in the sun", Mr Saifaie said.

He added that other measures, such as providing workers with special drinks designed to hydrate better than water, will be introduced after Ramadan.

The municipality's director general, Hussain Nassir Lootah, encouraged other government departments to ensure the well-being and comfort of their workers, who he called the unsung heroes behind every success of the city and society.