Amid Rising Heat, Odisha Halts Outdoor Work During Peak Hours
Bhubaneswar: With temperatures expected to rise sharply in April, increasing the risk of heatstroke, the state Labor and Employees’ State Insurance Department has issued new safety guidelines to protect workers from extreme heat conditions.
According to the directive, outdoor labor activities should be suspended daily between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM from April 1 to June 15. Instructions have been sent to all Revenue Commissioners, District Collectors, and the State Labor Commissioner to ensure strict implementation.
The advisory applies to all government departments, central government offices operating within the state, private employers, industrial units, commercial establishments, shops, and contractors. Employers have been urged to reschedule working hours to avoid exposing workers to peak daytime heat.
In cases where work is unavoidable—particularly for essential services—employers must take adequate precautionary measures to safeguard workers. These include:
- Providing sufficient drinking water
- Arranging shaded rest areas
- Ensuring access to medical facilities
- Supplying ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) packets to workers
Additionally, healthcare institutions such as district hospitals, sub-divisional hospitals, primary health centers, and community health centers have been directed to remain prepared to handle heat-related illnesses.
The move aims to minimize the risk of heatstroke and ensure worker safety during the intense summer months.
