Oman’s Ministry of Labour has officially implemented a new summer rule banning outdoor work during the hottest hours of the day. From June through August, work in open areas such as construction sites must stop between 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM.
The regulation, part of Article (16), Clause (2) of the country’s Occupational Safety and Health Regulations, is designed to reduce heat-related health risks faced by labourers, particularly during Oman’s scorching summer months.
The decision aligns with the launch of the Safe Summer campaign, an initiative aimed at educating companies and the general public on the dangers of heat stress. The Ministry is urging private sector firms to strictly follow the new rule and prioritise employee safety during peak heat hours.
This announcement comes as Oman is already facing intense heatwaves. The following temperatures were recorded recently:
- Awabi: 45.6°C
- Sur: 46.4°C
- Al Ashkarah: 47.2°C
- Qurayat: 48.6°C
Oman’s Meteorology Department has also warned of rising temperatures in several regions, including North and South Batinah, Dhahirah, North Sharqiyah, and Al Wusta.
Health professionals are advising all residents, not just workers, to avoid sun exposure during these peak hours. They recommend staying indoors, staying hydrated, and watching for signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
With this updated policy, Oman joins several Gulf nations in taking steps to ensure safer working environments during extreme summer conditions.
