RIYADH — The Ministry of Labor on Monday started enforcing a regulation preventing laborers from working under direct sun, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported. The outdoor work ban will be effective from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. from June 15 until Sep. 15. Dr Abdullah bin Nasser Buthunain, undersecretary at the ministry for inspection and work environment development, said the regulation exempts laborers working for oil and gas companies as well as emergency maintenance workers, provided that necessary measures be taken to protect them from detrimental sun rays. Buthunain noted that some provinces will not be enjoined to enforce the measure as they enjoy low and tolerable temperatures. He added that companies which are found not complying with the law will be subjected to punishment of fines ranging between SR3,000 and SR10,000 per violation or closure of the facility for no more than 30 days or forever.
