New Ministry of Labor regulations have given workers in hot regions across the Kingdom a much-needed reprieve from the scorching sun. As summer temperatures continue to rise, companies have been ordered to rearrange for the safety of their workers laboring in extremely hot weather. Companies are now required either to allow their employees in the field to work during the evening or reduce their hours during the day. The ministry has warned that it would penalize the firms forcing their employees to work in open areas under the scorching sun. Muhammed Al-Dwaish, General Manager of Legal Department in the Ministry of Labor, said there would be strict penalties for violators. “Violating the new regulations may also result in the cancellation of commercial licenses,” Al-Dwaish said. “Working under hot sun may harm workers and we are committed to protect their state of affairs.” The new laws came after the wave of high temperatures hit some areas in Saudi Arabia especially in central and eastern regions where temperature rose up to 46 degree Celsius. Al-Dwaish said the ministry would conduct several tours to inspect work fields, especially construction sites. Some construction companies in Jeddah have already rescheduled their work hours. Abdulaziz Al-Naser, member of the Constructors' Committee in Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), said the new regulations were based on International and human rights laws. __
