How We Ensured Our Employees Had a Safer Summer

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At Desert Group, the safety and well-being of our outdoor employees are paramount, especially during the scorching summer months. To tackle the challenges posed by extreme heat, we recently conducted an innovative HR activity. This initiative included comprehensive training sessions on midday breaks and coping with peak heat, as well as providing insulated flasks to keep our employees hydrated and reduce single-use plastics. Here’s how we ensured our team had a safer and more sustainable summer.

Training Sessions on Midday Breaks

To protect our outdoor employees from the intense midday sun, Desert Group conducted extensive training sessions. These sessions covered:

These sessions, led by our experienced HR team, were designed to empower our employees with knowledge and practical tips to stay safe during the summer heat.

Hydration Initiatives

Hydration is critical in combating heat stress. To ensure our team stays hydrated, we provided:
This initiative not only supports our employees’ health but also aligns with our environmental commitment by reducing the use of single-use plastics.

Employee Feedback and Engagement

The response from our employees has been overwhelmingly positive. Many pointed out how they didn’t understand how crucial the mid-day breaks were and how greatly they benefited them. Many also noted improved comfort and well-being during work hours when we checked up on them days after the workshop. These initiatives have significantly boosted morale, demonstrating our commitment to employee care and engagement, which is a core value at Desert Group. Learn more about our core values here.

Did you know that staying hydrated can improve overall work performance by up to 14%? Proper hydration helps maintain energy levels and cognitive function, essential for our team working in the summer heat​​.

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Ongoing Commitment to Sustainability

At Desert Group, our commitment extends beyond employee safety to environmental responsibility. By providing reusable insulated flasks and encouraging regular water refills, we aim to cut down on single-use plastics. This initiative is part of our broader strategy to implement sustainable practices within our operations, reflecting our dedication to both our team and the planet.

Continuous Improvement

We are committed to continuous improvement in all our initiatives. Educating and empowering our employees is crucial for their well-being and productivity. We will continue to review and update our safety measures and sustainability practices, ensuring they remain effective and relevant.

Future Plans

Desert Group will keep conducting activities to educate and empower our employees. By providing them with the necessary tools and knowledge, we not only enhance their safety and well-being but also foster a positive and engaged work environment. This ongoing commitment helps us maintain high morale and achieve our broader organizational goals. Also, staying proactive and responsive, we strive to maintain a safe and sustainable work environment.

Conclusion

Desert Group’s dedication to the safety and well-being of our outdoor team is unwavering. Through comprehensive training sessions, hydration initiatives, and a strong focus on sustainability, we ensure our employees are protected from the summer heat. Our commitment to these practices underscores our core value of employee engagement and reflects our role as a responsible and forward-thinking organization. Here’s to a safe, healthy, and sustainable summer for everyone at Desert Group.

FAQs

Midday breaks are crucial to prevent heat-related illnesses and ensure the health and safety of outdoor employees. These breaks allow employees to rest and cool down, reducing the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Insulated flasks maintain the temperature of beverages, ensuring that employees have access to cool water throughout the day. This helps in keeping them hydrated and refreshed, which is essential for their health and performance.
Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are specially formulated to replenish lost electrolytes and fluids, preventing dehydration. They are particularly effective in hot conditions where excessive sweating can lead to electrolyte imbalances.

The UAE government has implemented strict regulations to protect outdoor employees from the harsh summer heat. From June 15 to September 15, outdoor work is prohibited between 12:30 PM and 3 PM. Desert Group has implemented a monitoring system to track adherence to midday break rules. Supervisors conduct regular checks to ensure all team members are taking the mandated breaks and using the provided resources effectively.

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