Centre Directs States to Shield Workers from Extreme Heat

Hyderabad: In response to rising temperatures across the country, the Ministry of Labour and Employment has rolled out a comprehensive heatwave advisory to all States and Union Territories, requiring them to take urgent action to shield workers from dangerous heat conditions.

The directive was communicated to Chief Secretaries and Administrators nationwide, emphasizing the need for a unified strategy to protect labourers working in outdoor environments and high-risk occupations.

Modified Work Schedules and Worker Protections

The advisory calls on States to adjust work timings to minimize exposure during the hottest parts of the day. Additionally, employers have been instructed to guarantee ready access to drinking water at all worksites and establish designated rest spaces for workers. Heat-relief supplies including ice packs and oral rehydration salts (ORS) must be made available by employers.

The Ministry has also encouraged flexible working arrangements and a reduction in workload intensity during peak temperature hours. Proper air circulation and cooling infrastructure at work locations have been mandated as essential safety requirements.

Vulnerable Groups in Focus

Construction workers, brick kiln labourers, and those engaged in daily wage work face heightened vulnerability to heat-related illnesses and have been identified as priority groups requiring enhanced protections under the advisory.

Healthcare Infrastructure and Monitoring

Medical facilities operated by the Employees' State Insurance Corporation and the Director General of Labour Welfare have been directed to establish specialized counters dedicated to managing heatstroke cases. These facilities must maintain sufficient stocks of ORS, ice packs, and related preventive materials.

The Chief Labour Commissioner and the Directorate General of Mines Safety have been tasked with overseeing workplace compliance. Their monitoring will focus on adherence to provisions covering water availability, ventilation standards, cooling amenities, and regular health assessments of workers, with tracking of implementation across job sites.

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation and the National Career Service have been advised to ensure adequate cooling, ventilation, and water supply during their field camps and outreach activities.

Reporting and Awareness

All organizations are required to submit fortnightly progress reports detailing the measures implemented, which will enable the Ministry to conduct comprehensive reviews and strengthen oversight. Awareness initiatives and training sessions are being planned across the nation to educate workers and employers about heat safety.

The Ministry underscored that proactive intervention coupled with rigorous enforcement are critical to maintaining worker wellbeing and operational efficiency throughout the summer months.