The office of the Labour Commissioner, Nagaland has informed on the Ministry of Labour & Employment, Government of India, vide D.O. No. Z 16025/20/2023-ISH-II dated 20^th April, 2026, advising all State/UTs to take proactive measures for safeguarding workers and labourers from the adverse effects of heat wave conditions;

The Department informed that it has become necessary to ensure the occupational safety, health and welfare of workers engaged in various sectors across the State during periods of extreme heat and high temperatures. Therefore, in exercise of the powers vested under the relevant labour laws and in the interest of public safety and worker welfare, all employers, occupiers, industries, establishments, contractors, construction agencies, factories, bricks kilns and other stakeholders in the State of Nagaland are requested to strictly comply with the following preventive and precautionary measures during the heat wave season:

1. Working Hours and Scheduling: The working hours shall, wherever feasible, be re-scheduled to avoid exposure of workers during peak heat hours. Heavy and strenuous work should preferably be carried out during the cooler parts of the day, and employers shall provide flexibility in work schedules and ensure adequate rest intervals for workers exposed to outdoor or high-temperature environments.

2.  Drinking Water and Cooling Facilities: Adequate safe and cool drinking water facilities shall be provided at all workplaces. Rest sheds, shaded areas and cooling arrangements shall be made available for workers at worksites, and employers shall ensure proper ventilation and cooling measures, wherever practicable.

3.  Health and Safety Measures: Employers shall keep emergency first-aid materials, including ice packs and heat illness prevention kits, readily available at workplaces. Any worker showing symptoms of heat stress, dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat stroke shall immediately be provided with medical attention and necessary assistance, and employers are advised to coordinate with nearby health facilities for periodic health check­ups and emergency medical support for workers.

4. Awareness and Special Protection Measures: Special attention shall be given to construction workers, brick kiln workers daily wage earners, casual labourers and other outdoor workers who are particularly vulnerable to heat wave conditions. Employers and contractors shall create awareness among workers regarding symptoms of heat stress dehydration and preventive measures through suitable awareness programmes. And display of posters, banners and safety advisories at worksites and labour congregation points is strongly encouraged.

All concerned establishment and employers are requested to ensure strict compliance with the above measures in order to prevent heat-related illnesses and to safeguard the health, safety and well-being of the workers. This circular shall come into force with immediate effect and remain operative during the heat wave season or until further orders.

(DIPR)