Outdoor workers have been urged by a medic to stay vigilant and take precautions as temperatures begin their seasonal climb.
The advise follows the Labour Ministry’s announcement yesterday that the annual midday work ban – prohibiting outdoor labour under direct sunlight from noon to 4pm – will run from June 15 to August 31.
Violators will be subject to imprisonment for up to three months and/or fines ranging from BD500 to BD1,000.
American Mission Hospital primary care head and general practitioner Dr Babu Ramachandran requested workers and employers to take the ban seriously.
“Thanks to the annual summer ban, we have seen progressively fewer incidents of heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion,” Dr Ramachandran told the GDN.
“Despite that, as temperatures are consistently rising every year, labourers need to be more prudent than ever, and raising awareness remains vital.
“Those working outdoors should avoid taking any unnecessary risks. Adhere to the provisions of the ban and do not take it lightly, because heat-related illnesses can be dangerous.”
Two of the most common illnesses reported by outdoor workers during the summer are heat exhaustion and heat stress.
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats and struggles to regulate its temperature, with symptoms including heavy sweating, pale or clammy skin, dizziness, headache, nausea and muscle cramps. While usually manageable, it can escalate if symptoms do not improve within 30 minutes or progress to confusion, loss of consciousness or dry, hot skin.
Heatstroke, however, is a life-threatening medical emergency in which the body’s temperature regulation fails. Symptoms include an extremely high temperature (around 40C or higher), confusion, agitation, slurred speech, delirium, seizures, loss of consciousness, rapid shallow breathing, and nausea or vomiting. Immediate medical attention is critical, and emergency services – 999 – should be contacted without delay.
Dr Ramachandran explained how people can help alleviate symptoms, recommending immediate care for such patients.
“If you see someone exhibiting any symptom of heat exhaustion, immediately take them out of the sun and into the shade,” he said.
“Remove any excess clothing and cool the patient’s body, either with cool water or an ice pack, and get them to sip on some liquids slowly as to not overwhelm the body suddenly.
“Take steps to protect yourself, hydrate properly and periodically during the summer and try to avoid working in the sun whenever possible.
“Wear loose clothing, take frequent breaks and try to have some light food instead of heavy meals.”
Dr Ramachandran said the Indian Community Welfare Association (ICWA) will resume its annual distribution campaign in the third week of June, with volunteers visiting worksites to hand out laban, fruit and water to raise awareness.
Meanwhile, the Labour Ministry has warned firms to ensure compliance with the ban, or risk facing legal consequences.
During the 2025 summer ban (June 15 to September 15), Bahrain recorded a 99.97 per cent compliance rate. Out of 35,050 inspection visits by the Labour Ministry, inspectors found only 10 establishments in violation, involving a total of 18 workers.
“The ban will be in effect from June 15 to August 31 this year,” the ministry said in a statement yesterday.
“This comes as part of ongoing efforts to further enhance safe working environments, protect workers, and ensure their well-being by preventing heat stress, heat stroke and other summer-related illnesses. It will also reduce occupational accidents during this period of the year, characterised by a significant rise in temperatures and humidity levels.
“Any person found to be in breach of the provisions of the ban could be liable to imprisonment for a period not exceeding three months and a fine of not less than BD500 and not more than BD1,000, or either of these penalties.”
People are being urged to report violations by calling the ministry’s hotline at 17873921, operating from 7am to 4pm throughout the week.
Citizens and residents may also report violations during the work ban period via WhatsApp using the same number.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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