Published Feb 13, 2026 | 8:21 PM ⚊ Updated Feb 13, 2026 | 8:21 PM
Representational image. (iStock)
Synopsis: As per the order, all workers employed in sun-exposed areas will have a mandatory rest period from 12 noon to 3 pm. The total working hours will be limited to eight hours between 7 am and 7 pm. For those working on shifts, the morning shift must conclude by 12 noon and the afternoon shift will commence only at 3 pm. The order exempts regions situated above 3,000 feet above sea level and areas not exposed to direct sunlight.
With summer setting in and temperatures rising steadily across Kerala, the Labour Commissionerate has rearranged the working hours of labourers engaged in outdoor work to prevent cases of sun stroke.
In a statement, the Labour Commissioner said that, under Sections 24 and 25 of the Kerala Minimum Wages Act, 1958, new working hours will be in force from 13 February to 20 May.
As per the order, all workers employed in sun-exposed areas will have a mandatory rest period from 12 noon to 3 pm.
The total working hours will be limited to eight hours between 7 am and 7 pm. For those working on shifts, the morning shift must conclude by 12 noon and the afternoon shift will commence only at 3 pm.
The order exempts regions situated above 3,000 feet above sea level and areas not exposed to direct sunlight.
In case of local emergencies requiring deviation from the revised schedule, authorities must report the matter to the concerned Regional Joint Labour Commissioner or Chief Inspector of Plantations and the Labour Commissioner.
To ensure strict enforcement, three special inspection teams will be constituted in every district under the leadership of District Labour Officers, Deputy Labour Officers and Assistant Labour Officers Grade I.
These teams will conduct daily inspections, with special focus on construction sites and road works, the statement said.
Meanwhile, Kerala also recorded a high Ultraviolet (UV) Index in the last 24 hours, with Pathanamthitta and Idukki reporting a peak level of 8, placing them under an orange alert category.
According to the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), a UV index of 6–7 warrants a yellow alert with precautions, 8–10 signals a high alert, and 11 and above is considered extremely harmful.
As per the data, 8 districts has been placed under yellow alert. They are, Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram and Wayanad. The highest UV radiation is typically recorded between 10 am and 3 pm.
Continuous exposure during these hours can lead to sunburn, skin diseases, eye ailments, dehydration, sunstroke and heatstroke, the authorities said. They also urged the public to avoid direct sunlight during peak hours and to stay hydrated even if not thirsty.
Outdoor workers, fishermen, bikers, tourists, construction and agricultural labourers, as well as children, the elderly, pregnant women and those with low immunity or existing illnesses, have been advised to exercise extra caution.
Wearing loose, light-coloured cotton clothing, hats, umbrellas and sunglasses is recommended.
People are encouraged to take frequent breaks in shaded areas and carry sufficient drinking water.
With UV levels also higher in hilly terrains and reflective surfaces like water bodies and sand, authorities have urged strict adherence to official advisories to prevent heat-related illnesses.
(With inputs from Dileep V Kumar)
