As the scorching summer sun prepares to blaze across the UAE, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has once again unfurled its annual Midday Break initiative. Commencing from June 15th to September 15th, this regulatory respite prohibits outdoor work under direct sunlight between the hours of 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm.
Now in its 20th consecutive year, the Midday Break stands as a stalwart cornerstone of the UAE’s labor legislation. Its primary objective remains unwavering: to cultivate a secure working environment, aligning with the zenith standards of occupational health and safety. By shielding workers from the perils of toiling amidst soaring temperatures, the initiative endeavors to curtail injuries and safeguard wellbeing.
Mohsin Al Nassi, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection Affairs at MoHRE, underscores the pivotal role of this cultural mandate within the nation’s business echelons. He heralds the Midday Break as a testament to the UAE’s commitment to cherishing its workforce, heralding them as the quintessential bedrock of corporate prowess.
Yet, amid the imperative for safety, MoHRE remains cognizant of exigencies that necessitate uninterrupted labor. Certain vocations, deemed vital for community welfare, receive exemptions. Tasks such as asphalt laying or concrete pouring, imperative for infrastructure sustenance, persist despite the Midday Break’s strictures.
However, even in the heat of duty, employers are bound by stringent directives. Provision of parasols, shaded sanctuaries, cooling apparatus, potable water, and requisite nourishment form obligatory accoutrements. Failure to comply invokes penalties, with fines ranging up to AED50,000 for recalcitrant companies.
MoHRE’s vigilance extends beyond mere edicts. Rigorous inspection regimens, bolstered by community vigilance, ensure adherence to the Midday Break’s sanctity. Awareness campaigns, akin to tendrils of enlightenment, reach deep into the labor landscape, enlightening both workers and employers alike.
In summation, as the UAE braces for another sweltering season, the Midday Break emerges not merely as a regulatory decree but as a testament to the nation’s unwavering commitment: to nurture, protect, and empower its labor force amidst the blistering crucible of summer’s embrace.
