Nagaland directs employers to protect workers from heat wave
Reported by Bhadra Gogoi
Dimapur: The Nagaland labour department on Tuesday directed all employers, occupiers, industries, establishments, contractors, construction agencies, factories, brick kilns and other stakeholders in the state to strictly comply with the preventive and precautionary measures to safeguard workers and labourers from the adverse effects of heat wave conditions.
In an order, the state labour commissioner’s office said it has become necessary to ensure the occupational safety, health and welfare of workers engaged in various sectors across the state during periods of extreme heat and high temperatures.
The order was issued following the Union labour & employment ministry’s notification, vide D.O. No. Z 16025/20/2023-ISH-II dated 20th April, 2026, advising all state/UTs to take proactive measures for safeguarding workers and labourers from the adverse effects of heat wave.
The department said the working hours will, wherever feasible, be rescheduled to avoid exposure of workers during peak heat hours.
“Heavy and strenuous work should preferably be carried out during the cooler parts of the day, and employers shall provide flexibility in work schedules and ensure adequate rest intervals for workers exposed to outdoor or high-temperature environments,” it said.
It also asked to provide adequate, safe and cool drinking water facilities at all workplaces, adding rest sheds, shaded areas and cooling arrangements will be made available for workers at worksites, and employers will ensure proper ventilation and cooling measures, wherever practicable.
The department directed the employers to keep emergency first-aid materials, including ice packs and heat illness prevention kits, readily available at workplaces.
Any worker showing symptoms of heat stress, dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat stroke will immediately be provided with medical attention and necessary assistance. They are also advised to coordinate with nearby health facilities for periodic health checkups and emergency medical support for workers.