Valletta – July 2025 – Malta has introduced landmark legislation aimed at safeguarding construction workers against heat‑related illness and overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, as extreme summer temperatures increasingly affect the island.

Under new regulations issued by the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA), construction firms and site supervisors are now legally obliged to adopt a set of mandatory protective measures on all construction worksites. These include:

• Supply of adequate drinking water through hydration stations, with workers allowed regular access as needed.

• Provision of high‑SPF sunscreen for all outdoor workers.

• Creation of shaded rest areas, such as tents or screens, where workers can cool down.

• Mandating hydration breaks in shaded or cooler zones, coordinated with work type and site layout.

• Encouragement of light, breathable clothing, provided it does not conflict with required protective gear; shirtless work is explicitly prohibited on site.

A key threshold point has also been enshrined in law: when ambient temperatures reach or exceed 40 °C as officially reported by Malta’s Meteorological Office, project supervisors must re‑assess site conditions and implement enhanced protective measures. These may include rescheduling tasks, increasing the frequency of breaks, or even temporarily suspending direct‑sun work

Why the Legislation Matters

Malta’s construction workers are especially vulnerable to heat stress due to:

• Limited natural shade on typical building sites and heat‑retaining construction materials;

• Prolonged direct sun exposure and physically demanding activity in high ambient temperature.

Heat‑related health risks include heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration, dizziness, heat cramps, and sunburn. Long‑term UV overexposure also increases the risk of premature skin ageing and skin cancer.

Moreover, fatigue and reduced alertness caused by heat can elevate the risk of workplace accidents.

Key Responsibilities for Employers

Employers, self‑employed workers, client representatives, and site supervisors must all comply with the new rules. Exemptions are allowed only for works of national interest, and only on the basis of detailed documented justification and enhanced protective arrangements.

Failure to comply may result in enforcement actions by OHSA, including penalties under the OHSA Act.

Practical Tips for Implementation

• Conduct a sites‑specific risk assessment, incorporating environmental conditions, humidity levels, and workload when planning summer operations.

• Schedule heavy‑duty tasks during early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are lower, and avoid peak sun hours if possible.

• Maintain cool‑down and shade zones, ensuring they are accessible, hygienic, and adequately sized relative to workforce.

• Provide on‑site training so workers and supervisors can identify early symptoms of heat‑stress and take immediate action.

• Establish a heat‑illness protocol, including communication procedures, buddy checks, and emergency response planning.

Need support in implementing these measures on your site?

At En-Sure Ltd, our certified Health & Safety Officers can help you assess risk, develop compliant procedures, and ensure your worksite meets all legal requirements, especially during Malta’s intense summer months.

👉 Contact us today to discuss how we can assist with on-site monitoring, risk mitigation strategies, and customised health and safety plans tailored to your construction activities.