Workplace Safety and Outdoor Work Ban

Source: Law No. 6 of 2010 (Private Sector Labour Law), Articles 78-95; Ministerial Decision No. 535 of 2015 (Outdoor Work Ban)

Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Kuwaiti national legislation, Amiri decrees, and ministerial decisions.

Kuwaiti National Law

What is this right?

Kuwait law requires employers to keep the workplace safe, and bans outdoor work during the hottest months:

  • Outdoor work ban: From 1 June to 31 August, work in open areas is prohibited between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
  • Employers must provide drinking water, shade, first aid, and proper ventilation.
  • Dangerous machinery must have safety guards and workers must receive training on hazards.
  • Employers must provide personal protective equipment (PPE) at no cost to the worker.
  • Workers can refuse dangerous work that poses an immediate threat to health or safety.

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 should you do?

  • Stop working outdoors between 11 AM and 4 PM during June, July, and August — this is the law.
  • Report unsafe conditions to MSAL labour inspectors.
  • 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 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.
  • 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.

You came here to know your rights — help someone else know theirs.

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