Summer heat going up, possibility of sunstroke; working hours rescheduled in the state

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In the wake of the state's increasing daytime temperatures, the working hours of the workers working in the sun have been rescheduled till April 30. The decision was made keeping in mind the possibility of sunstroke. Working hours from 7 am to 7 pm have been fixed at eight hours.

All workers working during day time shall have a rest period from 12 noon to 3 pm. Labour Commissioner Dr K Vasuki said that the timings have been rescheduled in such a way that for those working in shifts, the morning shift will end by afternoon 12 and the evening shift will begin at afternoon 3. Inspections will be carried out daily by forming special teams under the supervision of the District Labor Officer, Deputy Labor Officer and Assistant Labor Officer.

The Commissioner also said that inspections will be ensured by giving special consideration to construction and road construction sectors. Areas above 3000 feet above sea level where there is no possibility of sunstroke are excluded from the purview of this order.