Don’t make people work under direct sunlight: DC tells employers

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, March 18, 2025: The Udupi District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has urged employers not to make people work under direct sunlight between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. in view of the prevailing hot season and provide adequate hydration to them.

In a statement, DDMA chairperson and Deputy Commissioner K. Vidyakumari said sufficient shade should be provided to workers when they were made to work under direct sunlight. Workers should hydrate themselves at least once in 20 minutes or more and take sufficient rest. If permissible, workers in major construction projects could work in night shifts, she said.

The directions were issued to ensure the safety of workers, particularly those working in building and other construction, street vendors, drivers and others in view of the prevailing hot season by the DDMA and the district administration.

Employers should ensure availability of cool drinking water and other electrolytes. Jobs that demand heavy physical work should be done between early morning and 11 a.m. and after 4 p.m. without being exposed to the sun, Ms. Vidyakumari suggested. They should also get medical examination of workers done at periodical intervals as directed by the Union Health Ministry.

For those working indoors, employers should ensure providing cool environment, the DC added.