New Delhi: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has asked contractors, concessionaires, and toll operators to implement staggered working hours and other safety measures to protect workers from the ongoing heatwave and above-normal summer temperatures.

According to the guidelines issued on Tuesday (April 28), outdoor work on highways should be minimized during peak heat hours (12noon to 4PM) through optimised shifts and rotational rosters.

Heat-intensive activities like asphalt laying and welding must be carried out only in early morning or late evening hours.

Workers will get mandatory cooling breaks, with more frequent rests during extreme heat alerts. New and returning workers must be gradually acclimatised over 3-5 days. Training on recognising heat-related illnesses, including heatstroke, has also been mandated, a statement from the NHAI said.

Contractors are required to provide shaded rest areas, continuous cool drinking water, ORS, and glucose at construction sites. Use of breathable cotton-based high-visibility vests is advised, while safety gear remains compulsory. Patrol ambulances will carry ice packs, cold water, and IV fluids for emergencies.

For toll plazas, staff exposure during peak hours (11am to 3pm) should be reduced through shift management. Air-conditioned cooling rooms, temporary sheds, and ready availability of cool water and ORS are now mandatory, the statement said.