Poll shows workers favour extension of midday ban

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A poll conducted by the Ministry of Labour has indicated that most labourers in the UAE want to extend the noon workday ban to three months from the current two.

More than 15,000 respondents took part in the poll, which was conducted by the Ministry on its website, as part of its policy to curb job accidents and ensure the protection of workers at open construction sites, a news report by Emirates 24/7 said.

Over the last few years, the Ministry has enforced a two month mid-day work ban during the summer months, running from July 15 to September 15, between 12:30 and 3:00pm during work days.

However, the survey showed nearly 11,340 respondents favoured an extension of the period to three months, from June 15 to September 15.

The municipalities of the Emirates have been working strenously to enforce the midday ban, while also launching education programs to raise awareness of the issues behind the ban.

As a result of the ban, companies breaching the rules will face stringent measures, with repeat offenders facing the 'total ceasing of all project operations'.

The Ministry of Labour did not specify whether the poll results meant that it would take a decision to extend the work ban.

Aside from the UAE, the ban is in place in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait and Qatar.