Bahrain to Implement Midday Work Ban from July to August to Protect Workers from Summer Heat

TDT | Manama     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

The Ministry of Labour of the Kingdom of Bahrain has announced that it will begin enforcing the 2024 midday work ban from 1st July to 31st August, announced Labour Minister Jameel bin Mohammed Humaidan. This annual measure prohibits outdoor work under direct sunlight between the hours of 12 pm and 4 pm, aiming to safeguard the health and safety of workers during the hottest months of the year.

Mr. Humaidan emphasised Bahrain's unwavering commitment to promoting occupational safety and health by implementing relevant regulations, including the midday work ban. He highlighted the positive outcomes of this initiative, including the preservation of worker health, improved productivity levels, and the prevention of heat-related illnesses and accidents.

Humaidan stressed the importance of raising awareness among companies and workers about summer illnesses, heat stress prevention, and the provision of comprehensive healthcare, first aid, and technical solutions to minimise heat and humidity exposure. He noted that the ban aligns with Bahrain's commitment to upholding workers' rights, particularly the right to a safe and healthy work environment as stipulated by international labour standards.

The Minister acknowledged the positive impact of the midday work ban in reducing work-related injuries and enhancing productivity through work schedule adjustments. He commended the private sector's compliance with the regulation in previous years.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Labour has launched a proactive awareness campaign targeting employers and workers, providing informative brochures and leaflets in multiple languages. These materials explain the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to high temperatures, outline preventive measures against summer illnesses and occupational accidents, and highlight the requirements for ensuring safe working conditions during the summer months.

The Ministerial Decree on the Midday Work Ban stipulates penalties for non-compliance, as outlined in Article 192 of Law No. 36 of 2012 concerning the issuance of the Labour Law in the Private Sector. Violators face imprisonment for a maximum of three months and/or a fine ranging from 500 to 1,000 Bahraini Dinars.