Summer Safety Tips for UAE Construction Professionals

The scorching GCC summers present a significant challenge for construction professionals working outdoors. With temperatures routinely exceeding 40°C in the UAE, and the region as a whole, staying cool and hydrated becomes paramount to preventing heat-related illnesses.
In this blog, we’ll briefly discuss the local government’s essential safety precautions and recommendations to keep workers safe during the hottest months.

Understanding Regulations and Worker Rights

The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) enforces a crucial midday break regulation to protect workers from the harshest heat. From June 15th to September 15th, all outdoor labor must cease between 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm. During this mandated break period, employers are legally obligated to provide shaded areas and cooling equipment for workers. Companies failing to comply face hefty fines as the ministry will be monitoring the level of compliance through different channels.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers have a legal and ethical obligation to ensure worker safety during extreme heat. Here's a breakdown of key actions to implement as part of the necessary multi-pronged approach recommended by local authorities:

-Heat Stress Risk Assessment:

Identify areas with high heat exposure and develop mitigation plans. This might involve adjusting work schedules, providing cooling stations, or using alternative materials.

-Engineering Controls:

Provide shade tents, cooling fans, air-conditioning in rest areas, misting stations, and explore radiant barriers to reduce worksite temperature.

-Hydration:

Ensure readily available cool, potable water throughout the day with insulated coolers conveniently positioned. Consider electrolyte drinks for heavy sweating.

-Worker Education:

Train workers on heat illness symptoms, proper hydration techniques, safe work practices, recognizing early warning signs, self-pacing, proper PPE use, dangers of alcohol and caffeine, and the importance of breaks.

-Work Schedule:

Prioritize outdoor work for cooler morning and evening hours. Reschedule non-essential tasks involving high heat exposure for cooler times.

-Appropriate Clothing:

Encourage workers to wear lightweight, loose-fitting, breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton. Long sleeves and pants can minimize sun exposure while allowing for air circulation. Offer high-visibility vests made of breathable materials.

-Monitor Worker Health:

Train supervisors to identify signs of heat stress and heat-related illnesses. Encourage workers to communicate any discomfort. Provide immediate medical attention if needed.

Worker Awareness and Personal Responsibility

While employers have a primary responsibility for worker safety, workers also play a crucial role in protecting themselves:

-Acclimatization:

If new to working outdoors, gradually increase workload and exposure time to avoid heat stress.

-Hydration:

Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Aim for 1 cup of water every 20 minutes, and 1 cult of a “hydration drink” 2 to 3 times per day. This recommended amount is to be adjusted based on activity level.

-Listen to Your Body:

Take frequent breaks in cool, shaded areas. Move to air-conditioned spaces whenever possible. Recognize early signs of heat stress and seek immediate relief.

-Sun Protection:

Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, reapply every two hours, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and consider cooling neck wraps or bandanas.

-Diet:

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains throughout the day for essential vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes. Opt for lighter meals during the hottest part of the day.

-Avoid Dehydrating Beverages:

Limit alcohol and caffeine intake and opt for water, electrolyte drinks, or low-sugar fruit juices.

Planning and Communication

-Pre-Shift Planning:

Managers should plan work activities considering the heat stress risk and schedule demanding tasks for cooler hours.

-Open Communication:

Encourage workers to communicate any discomfort or concerns about working conditions. Supervisors should be readily available to address those concerns.

Emergency Preparedness

-Heat Illness Emergency Response Plan:

Develop a plan outlining procedures for identifying heat illness symptoms, providing first aid, and contacting emergency medical services.

-Worker and Supervisor Training:

Ensure everyone is familiar with the emergency response plan and how to administer basic first aid for heat-related illnesses.

-First-Aid Kit:

Maintain a well-stocked first-aid kit readily available on the worksite, including supplies for treating heat-related illnesses.

Additional Tips for Staying Cool and Comfortable

-Cooling Towels:

Dampen towels with cool water and wear them around the neck or forehead for a refreshing effect.

-Personal Cooling Devices:

Consider providing workers with wearable cooling vests or bandanas.

-Shaded Breaks:

Ensure break areas are shaded and well-ventilated. Consider using portable canopies or umbrellas.

-Minimize Strenuous Activity During Peak Heat:

If possible, reschedule physically demanding tasks for cooler times of the day.
It is also important to note that ensuring the heavy machinery used for your projects remains cool, which offers a two-fold benefit. This ensures workers safety on the job site, as well as preserves your uptime by helping prevent unnecessary breakdowns. You can read more on this topic in our “6 Quick Tips to Keep Your Machine Cool this Summer” blog.

You can also set your project up for success by making sure to rent heavy equipment that is well-maintained, or buying reliable brand-new machines.

Looking Beyond Regulations and Building a Culture of Safety

While adhering to UAE regulations is essential, building a workplace culture that prioritizes worker safety goes a long way. Here are some additional considerations:

-Invest in Worker Training:

Regularly train workers on heat stress prevention and safe work practices in hot weather.

-Promote Open Communication:

Encourage workers to voice their concerns about heat stress and working conditions without fear of reprisal.

-Lead by Example:

Supervisors should demonstrate safe work practices in hot weather and take breaks when needed.

-Recognize and Reward Safe Work Practices:

Acknowledge and appreciate workers who prioritize their safety and the safety of their colleagues.

 

By following these comprehensive guidelines, employers and workers can navigate the scorching UAE summer safely and productively. We must bear in mind that prioritizing worker health and well-being is not just a legal requirement, it's an investment in a productive and sustainable workforce. Taking these precautions can help prevent heat-related illnesses, improve worker morale, and ensure a successful outcome for everyone involved.