UAE Provides 6,000 Rest Stations For Delivery Workers To Beat The Heat

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced the provision of 6,000 rest stations for delivery service workers across the UAE. This initiative, in collaboration with government entities and private sector companies, aims to ensure the health and safety of delivery workers during the Midday Break from 15th June to 15th September 2024.

An interactive map will be available to help workers locate and access these rest stations easily. This measure is part of MoHRE's broader efforts to provide a safe working environment for delivery service workers. The initiative involves collaboration with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Integrated Transport Centre in Abu Dhabi, and various departments of economic development across the UAE.

Delivery companies such as Talabat, Deliveroo, Noon, and Careem are also participating in this initiative. Numerous restaurants, shopping centres, retail stores, and cloud kitchens will offer rest areas for delivery drivers. This step builds on last year's initiative when 365 rest stations were provided during the Midday Break from 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm.

Health and Safety Measures

The Midday Break mandates employers to provide parasols and shaded areas to protect workers from direct sunlight. Adequate cooling devices, sufficient cold drinking water, hydrating materials such as salts, and other amenities and first aid equipment must also be available at job sites. The MoHRE receives reports of any Midday Break violations through its call centre at 600590000, smart application, and website.

Unique Nature of Delivery Services

In a press statement, the Ministry highlighted that delivery services are a key logistical sector with unique challenges. Workers do not stay in one place while the Midday Break is enforced, and certain materials being transported need timely delivery. This initiative aims to address these specific needs by providing accessible rest stations.

This collaborative effort between MoHRE, government entities, and private sector companies underscores a commitment to improving working conditions for delivery service workers across the UAE.

With inputs from WAM