The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), in collaboration with the Sharjah Supreme Council for Family Affairs and supported by government and private sector partners, is continuing the 13th edition of the Heat Exhaustion Prevention Campaign in the Emirate of Sharjah under the slogan "Your Safety is Our Goal."
The campaign coinciding with the UAE's seasonal outdoor work ban is part of MoHAP’s ongoing efforts to ensure a safe and healthy work environment for the community in general.
This year's campaign launched at several key locations across Sharjah, including Al Hamriyah Sports and Cultural Club, Al Dhaid Sports Club in the Central Region, and Kalba University, among others. The activities extended to the Khorfakkan Club for The Disabled, Dibba Al Hisn Sports & Cultural Club in the Eastern Region, the Cement Factory in Al Saja'a, and Sharjah Sports Club.
Integrated Campaign
Targeting over 6,000 workers, the campaign features educational lectures on the dangers of heat exhaustion and direct sunlight, first aid procedures for heat-related injuries, and preventive measures for sunstroke. In addition, the campaign offers medical examinations such as blood pressure checks, blood sugar measurements, body mass index assessments, eye exams, and dental check-ups. Healthy foodstuffs were distributed to workers to show appreciation for their efforts, in addition giving them gifts and prizes in kind.
The campaign also involved visits to various work sites and factories throughout the Emirate of Sharjah, in collaboration with strategic partners including the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, Sharjah Prevention and Safety Authority, and the Sharjah Public Health Centre of the Emirates Health Services. These visits aimed to ensure compliance with the midday work ban and for reinforcing preventive measures against heat exhaustion and ensuring worker safety. Educational materials were distributed to supervisors and workers at construction sites to raise awareness and uphold safety standards.
Workers' health is a priority
Sheikh Khalid bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Prevention and Safety Authority, stated that the well-being of workers in Sharjah is a top priority for the Authority, adding that stronger collaboration between institutions and businesses is essential for maintaining the highest levels of occupational health and safety. Al Qasimi noted that this collaboration not only helps establish a safe and healthy work environment that enhances worker performance but also supports the Emirate's ongoing economic development.
Sheikh Khalid said that the Prevention and Safety Authority is committed to continually developing and enhancing the systems and procedures related to occupational safety and health, aligning them with global advancements in this sector. He urged all companies operating in the Emirate to register with the Sharjah Occupational Safety and Health System on the Authority's website and to immediately report any incidents or accidents related to public safety, including those caused by heat stress.
Healthy work environment
Mohammed Abdullah Al Zarooni, Director of the Ministry's Representative Office in Sharjah, emphasized that this campaign is a humanitarian effort reflecting the values of tolerance and social responsibility. It aims to safeguard the health and safety of the community by raising awareness among workers exposed to direct sunlight and heat exhaustion. This campaign comes in line with the government directives to protect workers' rights and ensure their safety, meeting the standards set by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Al Zarooni also commended the significant contributions of both federal and local government partners, as well as the private sector, in making the campaign successful.
Building healthy culture
On another note, HE Eman Rashid Saif, Director of the Health Education Department at the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, stressed that this drive showcases our partners' dedication to enhancing public health and the quality of life, with a specific focus on safeguarding workers from heat exhaustion and fostering a healthy culture that supports positive behaviors.
She underscored the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure the campaign's success, efficiently achieve its goals, recognize workers' efforts and provide them with a safe and healthy work environment.