Dr. Baiju Faizal, the esteemed Consultant in Internal Medicine at Lifecare Hospital in Musaffah, sat down with Al Arabiya English to shed light on the current heat-related challenges faced by outdoor workers in the UAE.
Despite the introduction of the mandatory midday break for workers from July 15 to September 15, Dr. Faizal highlights a concerning spike in heat-related illnesses, particularly among those working outdoors, such as in the construction sector.
“We are witnessing a considerable rise in such cases, especially among individuals engaged in outdoor activities like construction,” stated Dr. Faizal. Many of these patients are middle-aged workers who brave the scorching sun to earn their livelihood.
Nevertheless, Dr. Faizal believes that the UAE’s midday break rule has made a positive impact in recent years. Due to increased awareness and improved safety measures implemented by various companies, the number of outdoor workers seeking emergency medical attention for heat-related illnesses has decreased significantly.
“Previously, we used to have a significant number of cases, sometimes exceeding 10-20 cases a day. However, this trend has now decreased,” shared the doctor.
It’s evident that the UAE’s continuous efforts in promoting safety, enforcing regulations, and creating awareness are making a difference. But our mission doesn’t stop here!
As healthcare providers, we remain dedicated to supporting and safeguarding the well-being of every individual in the community. If you or anyone you know experiences heat-related symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out for medical assistance.
🔗 Read more about this insightful interview on Al Arabiya and stay informed about the measures taken to protect our outdoor workers during the scorching summer months.