ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Saudi Arabia lifted its three-month midday work ban for all private sector companies, following an improvement in the weather.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development made the announcement on Sunday. For the past three months, from June 15, 2024, the ministry, in collaboration with the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, had implemented the ban from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. This measure aimed to protect workers from the extreme heat and ensure a safe working environment, adhering to occupational safety standards.
During this period, compliance among private sector companies was notably high, reaching 94.6%, a significant increase compared to the previous year. The ministry and the National Council worked closely with employers to adjust work hours and follow the ban’s guidelines, helping to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and injuries.
These steps were part of a broader effort to address the challenges posed by climate change, which has made working during the hottest part of the day particularly dangerous. To raise awareness, the National Council launched media campaigns and the ministry provided a detailed Procedural Guide on its website, offering practical advice on preventing heat exhaustion and sun exposure-related issues.
The successful enforcement of this ban reflects the commitment of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the National Council to safeguarding workers’ well-being. As the ban ends, the ministry continues to stress the importance of following occupational safety and health guidelines to protect workers from the ongoing risks associated with extreme heat.
