Mid-day break for outdoor work in UAE ends on Friday

Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) on Thursday announced the end of the midday break rule that takes place every summer — from June 15 until September 15 — bringing this year’s midday break rule to a close on Friday.

The midday break rule, which has now been running for 13 years in the UAE, prevents any work under direct sunlight between 12.30pm and 3pm for three months during the summer to ensure the well-being and safety of outdoor workers.

Maher Al Obaid, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspectional Affairs at the MOHRE, praised the companies which adhered to implementing the rule this year.

The ministry in its statement also emphasised that companies must continue to ensure the safety of their workers throughout the year.

“Workers must be supplied with water at all times, as well as minerals which are approved for use by health authorities in the country. They must be provided access to first aid kits on site in addition to protective umbrellas,” the statement said.