The annual midday work ban, prohibiting outdoor labour under direct sunlight, should be extended to three full months to protect workers from the dangers of prolonged sun exposure during the hottest time of the day, according to the Migrant Workers Protection Society (MWPS).
Last month, the GDN reported that the work ban is scheduled to run for two and a half months, from June 15 to August 31, as per the Official Gazette.
The MWPS, which had campaigned for the ban to be extended from two months to three last year, is hoping to work with authorities to once again reinstate it from June 15 to September 15.
During a Press conference held yesterday, MWPS chairperson Mona Almoayyed said the society would soon approach authorities to reinstate a full three-month summer midday work ban.
Ms Almoayyed added that it makes sense to have the ban run for the extra two weeks since the period from June to September is the hottest time in Bahrain. The annual ban prohibits outdoor work from noon until 4pm every day.
Bahrain enforces this seasonal regulation in line with international labour standards to protect workers from heat-related illnesses and injuries during the peak summer period, when temperatures and humidity reach their highest levels.
Under the provisions of the ban, employers are required to display a schedule at the workplace specifying daily working hours in a manner visible to all workers. Labour inspectors will also be out in full force to ensure compliance.
While the decision applies to most forms of outdoor work carried out under direct sunlight, such as construction, certain roles are exempt, including workers in oil and gas facilities, as well as employees responsible for operating and managing essential public government services whose duties require them to remain active during the restricted hours.
Those in security, supervision, and rescue roles at swimming pools and beaches are also exempt, provided their employer obtains prior approval from the ministry.
The Gazette also urged employers to provide safe, well-equipped rest areas, increase rest breaks, ensure access to fluids, encourage regular hydration, and supply umbrellas, adequate ventilation, appropriate clothing, and personal protective equipment suited to working conditions.
The GDN reported last September that the annual midday outdoor work ban saw a 99.97 per cent compliance rate in 2025, with only 10 establishments found violating the rule.
The Labour Ministry conducted 35,050 inspection visits and ran awareness campaigns and workshops with health and safety officials from private sector establishments to educate workers on precautions against heat-related risks.
It also established a hotline to receive reports or complaints about any violations during the ban period.
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