Qatar Implements Midday Work Ban from June 1 Due to Extreme Heat

Doha: In response to rising summer temperatures, Qatar’s Ministry of Labour has announced a midday work ban for outdoor laborers, effective from June 1. The regulation is aimed at protecting workers from the health risks associated with intense heat exposure.

Under the new rule, outdoor work will be prohibited from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM daily. The ministry stated that working during peak daylight hours could lead to serious health issues, including heatstroke and dehydration, hence the need for strict preventive measures.

This annual measure, particularly relevant to sectors like construction, mandates that all companies ensure workers are given adequate rest during the designated hours. The Ministry will also conduct inspections to ensure compliance, and action will be taken against any companies found violating the rule.

Additionally, the Ministry of Labour, in collaboration with the health authorities, is conducting awareness campaigns to educate both employers and employees about the dangers of extreme heat and the importance of taking proper precautions. These include providing shaded rest areas and access to water.

Although the ministry has not yet announced how long the midday work ban will remain in effect this year, in previous years, the rule typically lasted until mid-September. The policy is expected to benefit thousands of workers, especially during the peak summer months of June, July, and August, when temperatures in Qatar and other Gulf regions soar.