The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has reiterated its commitment to protecting workers from heat stress by enforcing a ban on outdoor work between 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. annually from June 1 to September 15. Eng. Khalid Saif al-Khayareen, Director of Projects Affairs, highlighted in a recent statement that the authority closely monitors contractors and consultants to ensure compliance with this directive.
Ashghal emphasizes the health and safety of its workforce, especially those engaged in open-air construction activities, in coordination with the Ministry of Labour. To mitigate risks associated with high temperatures, the authority has implemented a comprehensive protection system that includes shaded and air-conditioned rest areas, provision of cold drinking water, air-conditioned transportation, and personal protective equipment. These measures are supplemented by intensified field monitoring, awareness campaigns, and training programs aimed at equipping workers and supervisors with knowledge on heat stress prevention and emergency response.
Al-Khayareen explained that Ashghal employs a proactive strategy by monitoring weather conditions daily using approved heat stress indicators. The authority takes prompt actions such as modifying or temporarily suspending work activities when necessary to protect workers’ health. Regular inspection tours and field exercises are conducted to assess the preparedness of response teams in handling heat-related emergencies.
Collaboration with the Ministry of Labour remains a central element in enforcing relevant legislation and enhancing occupational safety protocols. This partnership includes sharing best practices and conducting supervisory and awareness initiatives to improve adherence to health and safety standards on construction sites.
Training and awareness programs are regarded by Ashghal as a crucial pillar of prevention. These initiatives target workers, supervisors, and safety personnel to familiarize them with early symptoms of heat stress, prevention techniques, first aid, and emergency procedures, thereby raising overall readiness at project locations.
Compliance is overseen through a comprehensive monitoring system that combines periodic site visits and ongoing inspections by health and safety teams. According to al-Khayareen, the heat stress prevention measures significantly contribute to safeguarding workers’ health and minimizing the risks related to extreme climatic conditions.
He underscored that heat stress is entirely preventable when appropriate preventative measures are adhered to and affirmed Ashghal’s commitment to reinforcing these practices daily across its various projects.