The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) is set to begin its annual enforcement of Administrative Resolution No. 535/2015, which prohibits all forms of outdoor labor between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. from June 1st to August 31st. This regulation is aimed at protecting workers from the intense summer heat that characterizes Kuwait's climate.

The enforcement measures will include unannounced field inspections by dedicated teams, with violators facing potential legal actions. The resolution emphasizes worker safety, not a reduction in overall working hours.

To enhance public understanding and employer compliance, PAM will roll out a multilingual awareness campaign starting in early May. Titled “Their Safety is Most Important”, the campaign will leverage various social media platforms to spread awareness across different demographics. This educational effort will coincide with the deployment of occupational safety inspection teams who will visit work sites without prior notice.

The midday work ban is part of Kuwait’s broader strategy to uphold international labor standards related to occupational health and safety in extreme weather conditions. Officials stress that the regulation is designed not just to enforce rules but to create a culture of safety during the scorching summer months.

According to PAM, the policy has seen strong compliance from various sectors in past years. Employers are urged to continue adhering to the rules to avoid fines and legal issues, and to contribute to the protection of their workforce.

“This regulation is not meant to interfere with project timelines, but to ensure that outdoor laborers are not exposed to health risks due to extreme heat,” said a PAM spokesperson.

Businesses across Kuwait are reminded to adjust work schedules and project timelines to align with the regulation. Companies can minimize disruptions by scheduling non-outdoor tasks during peak heat hours.

Failing to comply could result in:

• Suspension of work permits
• Financial penalties
• Legal prosecution