As Qatar continues to prioritise the protection of outdoor workers during the peak summer months, the Ministry of Municipality has stepped up its occupational health and safety efforts by launching a heat stress awareness initiative to help workers recognise, prevent and respond to heat-related illnesses.Organised by the ministry’s Mechanical Equipment Department under the Public Services Affairs Sector in co-operation with the Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS), the programme was held at the Al Rayyan Municipality Theatre.
The initiative sought to raise workers’ awareness of the dangers of heat stress, its symptoms and preventive measures, while reinforcing compliance with occupational health and safety procedures during the summer season.
The event was attended by Eng. Abdullah Ahmed al-Karani, the assistant undersecretary for Public Services Affairs at the Ministry of Municipality; Mubarak Freish al-Salem, the deputy speaker of the Central Municipal Council; Dr Mohamed Saif al-Kuwari, the vice-chairman of the National Human Rights Committee; representatives of supporting organisations, and department directors and section heads from Public Services Affairs.
Speaking at the event, al-Karani said the initiative reflects the ministry’s commitment to strengthening the culture of occupational health and safety while expanding partnerships with government entities, national institutions and charitable organisations.Mechanical Equipment Department director Shareeda Sultan al-Rumaihi said the programme forms part of a series of awareness initiatives organised by the department in partnership with various organisations.
He noted that the initiatives not only enhance workers’ safety and well-being but also improve workplace efficiency, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to protecting its workforce as a key pillar of the country’s sustainable development.
The programme featured an awareness presentation and a lecture explaining the risks of heat stress, its symptoms and prevention methods.It also emphasised the importance of following approved occupational health and safety procedures and preventative measures to minimise heat-related risks at work sites during the summer.Al-Karani honoured the supporting and co-operating organisations in recognition of their contributions to the programme’s success and their continued support for the ministry’s efforts to strengthen occupational health and safety awareness.Workers also received gifts donated by the QRCS, Afif Charity Foundation, and the Jassim and Hamad Bin Jassim Charitable Foundation, highlighting the role of community partnership and social responsibility in recognising and supporting workers during the summer season.