Saudi Arabia Implements Summer Ban on Outdoor Work During Peak Heat

In a significant move aimed at safeguarding the well-being of workers, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) of Saudi Arabia has announced a new regulation that will restrict outdoor labor in private sector businesses and establishments during the afternoon hours. The regulation will take effect on Sunday, June 15, 2025, and will remain in place for a period of three months, concluding on September 15, 2025. This decision is being implemented in partnership with the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, in accordance with the country’s ongoing efforts to enhance the protection of workers.

Under the new regulation, employers will be prohibited from assigning outdoor tasks to their employees between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM each day during the summer months. These peak hours of heat, which are often the hottest part of the day, will be off-limits for outdoor work to ensure the health and safety of the workforce. The initiative, which applies to all private sector businesses, is designed to reduce the risks associated with working in extreme heat conditions.

Key Focus on Employee Health and Safety

The primary goal of this new restriction is to protect workers from the harmful effects of excessive heat exposure, such as heat exhaustion, dehydration, and sunstroke. These health issues can have severe consequences for workers, especially when they are subjected to prolonged periods of direct sunlight during the peak hours of the day. By enforcing the afternoon work ban, the MHRSD aims to reduce these risks and improve the overall health and safety standards in the workplace.

This program aligns with international best practices in occupational safety and health, which emphasize the importance of reducing heat exposure for workers in hot climates. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development is keen to ensure that its policies are in line with global standards, further reinforcing the country’s commitment to creating a safer and healthier work environment.

Encouraging Employers to Comply with New Guidelines

The MHRSD has also urged employers across the kingdom to adjust their working hours and schedules to comply with the new regulations. By doing so, they will not only help ensure the safety of their workers but also improve the overall productivity of their businesses. Working during the cooler hours of the day will minimize the risk of heat-related health issues, which can lead to employee absences and reduced efficiency.

In addition to enhancing worker safety, the MHRSD believes that this initiative will also help in the prevention of occupational diseases and injuries that result from exposure to extreme heat. The implementation of this program will contribute to the creation of a work environment that prioritizes health, well-being, and sustainability. Ultimately, this will benefit businesses by promoting a safer and more productive workplace.

Guidance and Reporting Mechanisms for Compliance

To ensure the smooth implementation of this restriction, the Ministry has made available a comprehensive Procedural Guide for Occupational Safety and Health on its official website. This guide provides detailed information on the new regulations, including how businesses should adapt their working hours and what steps should be taken to protect workers during the restricted period. The ministry has emphasized the importance of following these guidelines to avoid potential health hazards and maintain compliance with the law.

Furthermore, the MHRSD has established accessible channels for workers and employers to report any violations of the work prohibition. Workers who notice any breaches of the new regulation can report them through the ministry’s customer service hotline at 19911 or via its smartphone application. These measures are part of the government’s commitment to ensuring that workers’ rights are upheld and that businesses adhere to safety standards.

By actively monitoring and addressing non-compliance, the MHRSD aims to create an environment where workers are treated with respect and their safety is a top priority. Through these proactive steps, the Saudi government is taking significant strides toward improving workplace safety and reducing health risks for employees, particularly during the extreme heat of the summer months.

In conclusion, this new initiative from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development marks a major step forward in protecting the health of workers across Saudi Arabia. By limiting exposure to the intense afternoon heat, the government is setting a strong example of corporate responsibility and the importance of safeguarding employee well-being, contributing to a safer and healthier working environment for all.

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