Bahrain's midday work ban ends with almost perfect compliance

TDT | Manama    

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Labour Minister Jameel Humaidan announced the conclusion of the two-month midday work ban in Bahrain, showcasing an impressive compliance rate of 99.92%.

This initiative, spanning the scorching months of July and August, was designed to safeguard individuals labouring under the blistering sun and in open environments.

The move aimed at mitigating the risks of heat stress, sunstroke, and various other summer-related ailments while simultaneously bolstering productivity.

Additionally, the measure curtailed occupational accidents during the sweltering summer season.

To deter potential violators, Humaidan had issued stern warnings of penalties, which included imprisonment not exceeding three months, fines ranging from BD500 to BD1,000, or both.

This undertaking, in accordance with Resolution No. 3 of 2013, sought to shield workers from prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures, often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

During the course of these two months, the Ministry of Labour conducted an impressive 21,723 inspection visits to ensure strict adherence to the law.

Notably, authorities recorded 16 violations by employers and 31 by workers.

Minister Humaidan expressed gratitude to employers for their unwavering commitment to the ban throughout the challenging period, marked by soaring temperatures and humidity levels.

All violators have been referred to the Public Prosecution to face the legal consequences as stipulated by Article 192 of Law 36 of 2012, which governs penalties in the Private Sector Labour Law.