Workplace Safety and Outdoor Work Ban in Kuwait
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Kuwaiti national legislation, Amiri decrees, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Kuwait's summer outdoor work ban is strictly enforced by PAM, with inspectors patrolling construction sites and outdoor workplaces:
- Outdoor work ban: From 1 June to 31 August, all outdoor work is prohibited between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Kuwait's summer temperatures regularly exceed 50°C.
- Employers must provide drinking water, shade, first aid, and adequate ventilation at all worksites.
- Dangerous machinery must have safety guards and workers must receive training on hazards.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be provided at no cost to the worker.
- Workers can refuse dangerous work that poses an immediate threat to health or safety — this right is explicit in the Labour Law.
- PAM inspectors can shut down worksites that violate the ban and fine employers KWD 100-200 per worker exposed.
When does it apply?
- You work outdoors in Kuwait during the summer months (June through August).
- Your workplace has safety hazards — chemicals, heavy machinery, construction, or extreme heat.
- You are any worker in the private sector, including expatriates.
What to Do If Your Workplace Is Unsafe or Violating the Outdoor Work Ban in Kuwait
- Stop working outdoors between 11 AM and 4 PM during June, July, and August — the law protects you.
- Report unsafe conditions to PAM labour inspectors — call PAM's hotline or visit their office.
- If injured at work, seek medical treatment immediately and report the injury to your employer within 24 hours.
- Keep medical records — your employer is responsible for all workplace injury costs.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not work outdoors during banned hours even if your employer pressures you — the law protects you and your employer faces fines.
- Do not buy your own safety equipment — your employer must provide PPE for free.
- Do not ignore injuries — report them immediately to protect your right to compensation.
Common Questions
When does it apply — workplace safety and outdoor work ban?
You work outdoors in Kuwait during the summer months (June through August).Your workplace has safety hazards — chemicals, heavy machinery, construction, or extreme heat.You are any worker in the private sector, including expatriates.
What should I do if my employer is forcing me to work in unsafe conditions in Kuwait?
Stop working outdoors between 11 AM and 4 PM during June, July, and August — the law protects you.Report unsafe conditions to PAM labour inspectors — call PAM's hotline or visit their office.If injured at work, seek medical treatment immediately and report the injury to your employer within 24 hours.Keep medical records — your employer is responsible for all workplace injury costs.
What should you NOT do — workplace safety and outdoor work ban?
Do not work outdoors during banned hours even if your employer pressures you — the law protects you and your employer faces fines.Do not buy your own safety equipment — your employer must provide PPE for free.Do not ignore injuries — report them immediately to protect your right to compensation.