Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation: Midday Break ends tomorrow, with a 99.9% compliance rate recorded.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced the conclusion of the Midday Break which bans working under direct sunlight and in open spaces from 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm. This comes into effect starting from tomorrow, 15th September 2024.

The initiative, which began on 15th June, is part of a comprehensive system implemented by the Ministry to establish a safe working environment that complies with best practices and occupational health and safety standards. Its aim is to protect workers from injuries and harm caused by working in high temperatures during the summer months.

MoHRE has stated that the Midday Break was successful, with a 99.9 percent compliance rate among companies throughout the ban period. As part of this initiative, 6,000 rest stations were provided across the country for delivery service workers to use during the Midday Break hours.

Mohsin Al Nassi, Assistant Undersecretary for Inspection Affairs at MoHRE, praised companies in the UAE for their remarkable compliance with government regulations. He emphasized the importance of private sector partnerships and their role in the nation’s development, as well as their positive impact on the work environment, employee productivity, and the overall competitiveness of the UAE labour market.

During the Midday Break period, the Ministry conducted approximately 134,000 inspection visits, flagging only 51 violations, which highlights the level of awareness among companies and their commitment to their responsibilities toward their workers.

Al Nassi further noted that the Midday Break has become a significant aspect of UAE labour market legislation in the 20 years it has been implemented. He applauded the Ministry’s partners for their contributions, which included community initiatives to distribute food and cold drinks to workers during Midday Break hours.

Additionally, MoHRE’s partners in government entities and the private sector implemented various initiatives during the Midday Break period to raise awareness, inform workers of their rights, and improve workers’ well-being. Members of the community also engaged with the Ministry through its online platforms, smart application, and call center to submit suggestions and report violations.

The initiative also mandated companies and employers to offer shaded areas for workers during the Midday Break hours or when performing authorized jobs. They are also required to provide adequate cooling equipment, sufficient amounts of water, and hydration supplements, as well as ensure first aid equipment is available at work sites.