Combating Covid-19: Labourers across UAE screened twice a day

Labourers at accommodations across the country are being screened twice a day as part of the precautionary measures taken by the UAE to curb the spread of the Covid-19 coronavirus according to a ministerial resolution issued on March 29.

"The resolution number 281 issued by the ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in Abu Dhabi stated that screening points at entrances of labour accommodations must be provided," said Emirati lawyer Awatif Mohammed Khouri of Al Rowaad Advocates.

"This move is to check temperature and other symptoms of the virus twice a day -- in the morning before workers leave, and once again upon their return to the accommodation," Khouri noted.

She pointed out that as per the decision, transporting workers from and to labour accommodations will also be subject to precautionary measures.

"The number of workers in a vehicle is not to exceed 25 per cent of the vehicle's seating capacity to ensure a safe distance between them," she explained.

Mealtimes will also see fewer workers in canteens, with a minimum of two metres separating each one from the other, the decision stated.

"Workers showing coronavirus symptoms are to be reported at once to health authorities. Failure to do that will result in legal action," said Khouri.

The resolution, which also provides guidelines for remote-working, gave priory in working remotely to pregnant women, mothers of children in grade 9 and below, workers aged 55 years and above, people of determination, and workers suffering from respiratory or chronic diseases.

Private establishments, as per the decision, shall minimise number of workers to the minimum limit necessary for their businesses to function, with the number of workers who must be physically present not to exceed 30 per cent of the total number of workers.

Number of customers visiting service centres is also to be minimised to 30 per cent of the seating capacity of the place, with measures including maintaining safe distance to be adhered to while providing the service.

However, the rule of minimising workforce doesn't apply to activities relating to infrastructure projects, catering, telecommunication, power, health, education, banking sector, food processing, hospitality, health supplies manufacturing and cleaning companies.

The lawyer noted that working in accordance to this resolution is governed by the country's labour law and other relevant legislations.

• Dubai
• Sharjah

Afkar Ali Ahmed

afkarali@khaleejtimes.com