The Ministry of Labour &Employment on July 22nd 2024, issued the steps taken to mitigate the Adverse Effects of Extreme Hot Weather on Workers.
As temperatures rise, it’s important to take extra care of those working in the heat. To help protect workers from the harmful effects of extreme hot weather, the Ministry of Labour and Employment has put several measures in place which include:
- Changing Work Hours: To avoid the hottest part of the day, work hours are being adjusted. This helps workers stay cool and safe.
- Regulating Workload: Employers are asked to manage the urgency of physical tasks and piece rates during summer to reduce heat exposure.
- Providing Drinking Water: Ensuring that there is always enough drinking water available at work sites to keep workers hydrated.
- Health Checkups: The Ministry is coordinating with the Health Department to provide regular health checkups for workers to monitor their well-being.
- Emergency Supplies: Construction workers will have access to emergency ice packs and heat illness prevention materials.
- Training and Awareness: Various organizations under the Ministry are organizing training programs and awareness sessions. These sessions teach outdoor workers how to deal with heat waves and stay safe.
- Sickness Benefits: Under the Employees State Insurance (ESI), workers who fall ill due to heatwaves and need to take time off can get sickness benefits. This is available if their condition is certified by a medical officer and they meet the necessary conditions under section 46(1)(a) ESI Act, 1948. Under Section 46(1)(a), if an insured person falls sick and needs to abstain from work, they are eligible for sickness benefits.
