Kuwait Enforces Midday Work Ban to Shield Outdoor Workers

Kuwait’s annual midday work ban will officially begin this Sunday, as the country faces extreme summer heat. The rule bans outdoor labor between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm every day until the end of August. 

The ban is designed to protect workers from heatstroke and other health issues caused by soaring temperatures, which often exceed 50°C in summer. 

Law Protects Worker Health and Safety 

Introduced by the Public Authority for Manpower, the regulation aims to improve working conditions for laborers in construction and other outdoor industries. 

An official statement emphasized, “The ban helps protect the health of workers by limiting exposure to peak heat hours.” 

Companies that break the rule risk facing fines or other penalties. Inspectors will monitor job sites to make sure the rule is followed. 

Why This Ban Matters 

Kuwait experiences some of the hottest temperatures in the world during summer. Working outdoors in direct sunlight for long hours can lead to serious health problems like dehydration, heat exhaustion, and sunstroke. 

Medical experts say that even short exposure during the peak heat can be dangerous, especially for workers doing physical labor. 

Ban Covers All Outdoor Work Sites 

The rule applies to all outdoor work environments, including construction sites, road maintenance projects, and cleaning services. Businesses must adjust work schedules to ensure no outdoor tasks are carried out during the banned hours. 

Some companies are adopting early morning and evening shifts to continue operations while respecting the law. 

Regular Inspections to Enforce Law 

Authorities will be conducting field inspections to ensure employers are complying with the ban. Special inspection teams have been formed to cover high-risk areas and sectors. 

Employers found violating the rule may face legal consequences, including fines or temporary work stoppages. 

Employers Urged to Cooperate 

The Public Authority for Manpower has urged companies to cooperate fully and respect the ban. Officials say protecting worker health must remain a top priority, especially in the harsh summer climate. 

They also reminded employers to provide shaded rest areas, drinking water, and regular breaks during other working hours. 

Public Support for Worker Protection 

Many citizens and community groups have expressed support for the ban, saying it's a step in the right direction to treat workers with fairness and care. 

"These workers build our cities and roads under the sun. The least we can do is make sure they're safe," one local resident said. 

A Model for Other Hot-Climate Countries 

Kuwait’s move is part of a wider trend seen in several Gulf countries, where extreme summer heat has raised health concerns for outdoor laborers. Similar bans exist in the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. 

Such rules are becoming essential for adapting to changing climate conditions and promoting workplace safety.