With temperatures set to soar in April, the Odisha government has issued fresh directives to protect outdoor workers from heatstroke during the peak summer months.
The Labour & Employees State Insurance Department has directed all authorities to enforce a complete ban on outdoor work between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM from April 1 to June 15, 2026.
In an official communication sent to all Revenue Commissioners, District Collectors, and the State Labour Commissioner, the department has mandated immediate compliance. The guidelines apply to every government department (both state and central), private employers, industrial units, commercial establishments, shop owners, and contractors across Odisha.
Employers have been asked to reschedule work timings to avoid the hottest part of the day. In cases where work cannot be paused—such as essential services—employers must provide mandatory safeguards: unlimited access to cool drinking water, shaded rest areas, on-site medical facilities, and ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) packets for every worker.
Health authorities have also been put on high alert. Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs), Sub-Divisional Medical Officers (SDMOs), Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), and Employees’ State Insurance hospitals have been instructed to remain prepared for heat-related emergencies and ensure prompt treatment.
The move comes as a proactive measure to prevent heatstroke casualties, which have risen in recent years due to the intensifying summer heat in the state. Officials emphasised that strict enforcement and employer accountability will be monitored at the district level.
