Kuwait has urged companies to temporarily suspend outdoor work as unstable and potentially dangerous weather conditions persist across the country, raising serious safety concerns for workers exposed to open environments.The advisory, issued on March 26, comes as officials warned of worsening weather patterns including strong winds, possible storms and temperature fluctuations. Officials say the move is a precautionary measure aimed at preventing workplace incidents and protecting workers, especially in high-risk areas.The decision reflects the growing urgency to prioritize the safety of workers across the Gulf as extreme and unpredictable weather events become more frequent.
kuwait outdoor work suspension
Kuwait’s Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) has formally called on companies to temporarily halt outdoor work due to what it described as “unstable weather conditions” affecting the country.In its advisory, PAM particularly urged businesses whose operations depend on external workers, including construction firms, delivery services and contracting companies, to cease work at external sites until the situation improves.Officials clarified that this measure is precautionary and temporary, with work expected to resume once the weather stabilizes. The authority also stressed that ensuring a safe working environment should be a top priority for all employers.Officials also acknowledged the role of private companies in implementing safety measures and urged full cooperation to minimize risks during this period of weather volatility.
extreme weather conditions in kuwait
The advisory comes with warnings of severe and volatile weather, including heavy rain, storms and high winds, which can significantly increase the risks for outdoor workers.Such conditions not only reduce visibility and increase accident risk but also create hazardous work environments at construction sites and open areas. Sudden changes in weather, which are common during seasonal changes, can further increase the risk.While Kuwait is known globally for extreme heat that often exceeds 45°C, current conditions highlight that weather-related risks are not limited to the extreme summer months. Combined factors such as humidity, dust storms and rain can create unsafe working conditions even outside the hottest periods.Health experts warn that exposure to such environments can lead to fatigue, dehydration, loss of concentration and an increased likelihood of accidents, especially in physically demanding jobs.
gulf worker safety rules
Kuwait’s move is in line with broader Gulf efforts to protect foreign workers from environmental hazards. Countries across the region, including the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, regularly enforce afternoon work bans during the peak summer months, typically prohibiting outdoor labor during the hottest hours of the day.In Kuwait, similar seasonal regulations are enforced annually, usually between June and August, when temperatures reach extreme levels. However, this latest advice highlights how officers are willing to act outside of traditional timescales when conditions become unsafe.Earlier this month, Kuwait also imposed a temporary ban on outdoor activities, including maritime and desert operations, as part of broader safety measures during adverse weather conditions.
looking ahead
Authorities have made it clear that worker safety should be given priority over operational deadlines, urging companies to take proactive steps during this period.Employers are expected to reschedule outdoor work, closely monitor weather updates and ensure that workers are not exposed to unnecessary risks.For workers, the advisory serves as a reminder to remain alert to changing conditions and promptly report unsafe environments.As Kuwait enters another phase of unpredictable weather, the Government’s message is clear: preventive action today can avoid dire consequences tomorrow, reinforcing the importance of safety-first policies across all sectors.