The Ministry of Health and Prevention’s (MoHAP) Representative Office in Sharjah, in collaboration with the Health Promotion Department of the Sharjah Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA), has wrapped up the 12th Heat Exhaustion Prevention Campaign concluding another successful edition of the annual event.
The comprehensive campaign ran through the months of July and August, reaching out to an impressive 5,298 workers stationed at construction sites across diverse cities and regions within Sharjah.
This year's comprehensive campaign not only witnessed a remarkable wave of support from various sectors but also fostered a spirit of community and empathy, underscoring the principles of social solidarity. Local government bodies as well as private entities rallied together to recognize and honor the tireless dedication of workers who persist through the challenging summer months.
Coinciding with the nationwide ban on performing outdoor work under the scorching sun, the campaign falls within the framework of the Ministry's overarching strategy and vision aimed at establishing a world-class health system for a vibrant and healthy society. It also underscores the Ministry's commitment to enhancing community health and safety, promoting health awareness across all segments, and fulfilling its social responsibility while fostering a culture of giving within the country.
Carried under the theme "Your Safety is Our Goal," the campaign included a range of educational initiatives conducted at worksites to educate workers about the risks and symptoms of heat exhaustion, impart essential first-aid skills, and provide insights into preventive measures and prudent practices to avoid heat-related illnesses. Moreover, workers received free medical examinations, including vision tests, blood pressure checks, and blood sugar level assessments.
The campaign further contributed to the safety of workers by distributing personal protective equipment, including items to shield them from the sun, food, water, and special gifts, with a focus on reaching individuals from diverse nationalities.
The campaign's team conducted field visits to various locations in Sharjah, particularly in the central and eastern regions, where workers congregated.
These visits covered venues such as Al Juraina Park, Tilal City, Palm Oasis in Buhaira Corniche, Sharjah National Park (Airport Park), Al Qasimia University, Al Hamriyah Cultural and Sports Club, Expo Al Dhaid, Ittihad Kalba Sports and Cultural Club, Khorfakkan Sports and Cultural Club, and Dibba Al Hisn Sports and Cultural Club.
Notably, numerous government and private entities lent their support to this noble cause. Participants included the Health Promotion Department,(SCFA), Sharjah Police, Emirates Health Services (EHS), the Labour Standards Development Authority in Sharjah (LSDA), and Sharjah City Municipality.
This is in addition to the Department of Municipalities Affairs, Sharjah Cooperative Society, Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, Sharjah Prevention and Safety Authority, Sharjah Center for Voluntary Work, Emirates Red Crescent (ERC), Souq Al Jubail, Fast Building Contractors, Zulal Water Factory, Medcare Hospital, Aster Hospital, Al Jaber Optical, and Manzil Healthcare Services.