Nagaland Issues Heat Safety Advisory for Outdoor Workers

Kohima: The Nagaland Labour Department has issued a formal advisory requiring employers to implement protective measures for staff working in extreme heat. This directive, stemming from instructions by the Union Ministry of Labour and Employment, targets all industries, contractors, and businesses to ensure the welfare of those in outdoor or physically demanding roles.

Employers are encouraged to adjust work schedules to avoid the peak heat of the day. The guidelines suggest shifting strenuous tasks to cooler hours and offering flexible arrangements to prevent heat-related stress. Companies must provide safe, cool drinking water at all job sites and ensure workers have access to shaded rest areas, proper ventilation, and cooling facilities.

Construction workers, brick kiln laborers, and daily wage earners remain the primary focus of these protections. To improve safety, the department has asked employers to hold awareness programs regarding dehydration and heat stress. Sites should also display educational posters and safety advisories to keep workers informed. Compliance with these measures is now mandatory across all sectors to protect public safety during the heatwave season.