UAE's midday break for outdoor workers ends on Sunday, recording 51 infractions

The ministry announced the ban on working during the hottest hours of the day would conclude on September 15

Thousands of inspections were conducted to make sure companies were observing the midday break rule. Silvia Razgova / The National

The UAE's mandatory midday break for people working outdoors during the summer months will come to an end on Sunday, September 15, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation said.

The annual initiative, which was introduced in 2004, offers employees respite from the scorching sun during the hottest months of the year.

The ministry said 51 infractions had been uncovered as a result of 134,000 inspections, down from 96 the previous year.

Daytime temperatures in the UAE often reach the mid-40ºC during the summer, peaking nearer 50ºC.

The mandatory midday break came into force on June 15. Employers are prohibited from making staff work outdoors from 12.30pm until 3pm during the three-month period.

During this time, 6,000 rest stations were installed for delivery service workers to use during the noon break hours.

"Commitment from private companies in the UAE has gone beyond merely implementing regulations, with establishments launching their own initiatives to mitigate the risk of heat stress for their workers," said Mohsin Al Nassi, assistant undersecretary for inspection affairs at the ministry.

The midday break initiative also means companies and employers must offer shaded areas for workers during the break, as well as provide water and hydration supplements, such as electrolytes, and first aid equipment.