Muscat: The Ministry of Health has issued a set of thorough recommendations to safeguard construction workers from heat stress during the height of summer. As part of the national "Safe Summer" campaign, the initiative offers employers specific instructions to protect their employees during high temperatures.
The advisory has three key pillars:
Smart Work Scheduling: Employers are encouraged to schedule challenging duties in the early morning or late afternoon. To minimize exposure, construction and outdoor activities must stop between 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. in June, July, and August.
Regular Breaks: Workers should take breaks every 45 to 60 minutes when working in hot conditions. These breaks should be taken in shaded or air-conditioned regions with access to drinking water to preserve hydration.
Cooling and Ventilation: The Ministry suggests outfitting indoor work areas with fans or air conditioning. Portable fans and shaded canopies should be offered on outdoor sites to limit heat exposure.
These safety measures are designed to reduce the risk of heat-related diseases and provide safe, humane working conditions during Oman’s hottest season. The Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to employee health, urging all businesses to follow the rules strictly.
