The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has lauded the commitment and social responsibility displayed by most private sector establishments as the Midday Break period concludes. This annual ban on outdoor work or work under direct sunlight, enforced between 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., ran from June 15th to September 15th, 2023.
MoHRE reported that an overwhelming majority of establishments adhered to the Midday Break regulations. Only 96 establishments were found to have violated the ban. The Ministry conducted over 113,000 field visits to various establishments, focusing on inspections and raising awareness regarding the ban’s significance in safeguarding worker safety.
The Midday Work Ban constitutes a cornerstone of the UAE’s occupational health and safety system within the labor market. It is designed to ensure a secure working environment for laborers, shielding them from sun-related injuries and the adverse effects of high temperatures during the scorching summer months.
His Excellency Mohsin Al Nassi, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection Affairs at MoHRE, extended gratitude to the compliant establishments, emphasizing their dedication to upholding the highest standards of competitiveness and social responsibility. He emphasized the deep-rooted principles of occupational health and safety within the UAE labor market.
Al Nassi acknowledged the valuable collaboration between government and private entities during the Midday Work Ban period. He particularly commended those who supported the initiative to establish 356 rest stations equipped with essential services for delivery drivers across the nation.
Furthermore, Al Nassi praised members of the community who contributed to the success of the Midday Break. They showed their support for workers by launching initiatives that recognized their dedication and efforts, such as distributing cold beverages and reporting instances of ban violations to MoHRE.
He underscored the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening the UAE labor market’s leadership and attractiveness. This is achieved by implementing best practices in occupational health and safety while continuously striving to enhance worker well-being.
“The ban has proven its role in increasing productivity, reducing injuries, and stabilizing labor relations,” he concluded. The Midday Break not only serves as a crucial safety measure but also contributes to the overall welfare of the labor force in the UAE.