Labour Ministry asks states to safeguard workers from heatwave

Labour Ministry asks states to safeguard workers from heatwave

The Ministry of Labour & Employment (MoLE) has written to all chief secretaries of states/UTs on the need to take urgent steps to safeguard workers from extreme heatwave conditions.

According to an official order, states/UTs have been advised to issue directions to employers, occupiers, industries, and construction companies to implement effective heatwave mitigation measures for workers.

The states have been recommended to reschedule working hours to avoid peak heat times, ensure access to adequate drinking water for workers, provide shaded rest areas and ventilation or cooling at worksites, make arrangements for conducting regular health check-ups, and supply emergency ice packs and heat illness prevention materials.

Further, special focus has been advised for: workers in factories, construction sites, brick kilns, and mines; underground mines where proper ventilation and flexible work schedules are crucial; and adoption of slower work pace and two-person crews during extreme heat.

The states/UTs are urged to disseminate information widely among workers on heat protection through awareness camps, posters, banners at labour chowks, and other local engagement efforts, said the order.

The MoLE has also directed its linked organisations, including Directorate General Labour Welfare (DGLW), Chief Labour Commissioners (CLC), etc. to conduct awareness sessions and training on recognising and preventing heat stress, and include heatwave-specific content in worker training modules.

Hospitals and dispensaries under DGLW and Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) have been instructed to set up dedicated desks for heat stroke cases, and ensure availability of ORS, ice packs, and other necessary materials to handle heat-related illnesses.