Bhubaneswar: The state govt has issued fresh guidelines to prevent heatstroke among workers during the summer months. The Labour and Employees’ State Insurance department has directed all revenue commissioners, district collectors and the State Labour Commissioner to take necessary steps to protect workers from extreme heat. As per the directive, from April 1 to June 15, workers should not be engaged in outdoor work between 11 am and 3 pm, when the heat is most intense.The govt has urged all departments, private employers, industrial and commercial establishments, shop owners and contractors to comply with these instructions. They have been advised to adjust working hours accordingly to ensure the safety of labourers.In cases where work is unavoidable or involves essential services, employers must take precautionary measures to safeguard workers from heat-related illnesses, the department directed. These include ensuring the availability of safe drinking water, providing shaded rest areas, arranging medical support and supplying ORS (oral rehydration solution) packets to all workers.Additionally, health officials have been asked to remain alert and prepared to handle heat-related cases.
