With the summer solstice marking the official start of summer, rising temperatures once again bring increased health and safety challenges for outdoor workers, particularly those employed in the construction sector.

Malta’s hot and humid summer conditions can expose workers to heat stress, dehydration, fatigue, reduced concentration, and in severe cases, heat stroke. These risks not only affect workers’ health and wellbeing but can also increase the likelihood of workplace accidents and incidents.

As temperatures begin to climb, now is the ideal time for employers, contractors, and project supervisors to revisit their heat stress prevention measures and ensure that all necessary safeguards are in place.

A Reminder of Malta’s Heat Protection Requirements

In 2025, Malta strengthened its approach to protecting construction workers from heat and UV exposure through updated legal requirements applicable to construction sites.

These measures remain fully applicable throughout the summer months and require employers and project supervisors to implement practical controls aimed at reducing heat-related risks.

Key requirements include:

Ensuring Access to Drinking Water

Workers must have continuous access to fresh drinking water through dedicated hydration stations. Proper hydration remains one of the most effective ways of reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Providing Shaded Rest Areas

Suitable shaded areas should be available on site to allow workers to cool down and recover during rest periods, particularly during the hottest parts of the day.

Scheduling Regular Breaks

Work activities should be planned to incorporate appropriate rest breaks, taking into consideration both the physical demands of the work and prevailing weather conditions.

Providing Sun Protection

Employers are responsible for supplying suitable sunscreen to workers exposed to prolonged sunlight throughout the working day.

Wearing Appropriate Clothing

While workers must continue to comply with all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), clothing should be lightweight and breathable wherever possible. Working shirtless on construction sites is not permitted.

Preparing for Extreme Heat Events

Particular attention should be given to periods of extreme heat.

Where temperatures reach or exceed 40°C, project supervisors are required to reassess site-specific risks in consultation with health and safety personnel and determine whether additional control measures, revised work schedules, or other protective actions are necessary.

Proactive planning before extreme temperatures occur can significantly reduce risks and help avoid disruptions to site operations.

Heat Stress Management Is More Than Compliance

While compliance with legal requirements is essential, effective heat stress management should be viewed as part of a broader commitment to worker wellbeing and workplace safety.

Simple measures such as encouraging regular hydration, monitoring workers for signs of heat-related illness, adjusting work schedules, and ensuring adequate rest facilities can make a substantial difference in protecting employees during the summer months.

As Malta enters another long and hot summer season, now is the perfect opportunity for organisations to review their risk assessments, site procedures, and emergency arrangements to ensure they remain fit for purpose.

How En-Sure Can Help

At En-Sure Ltd, we support organisations with Health & Safety risk assessments, compliance reviews, workplace inspections, and practical safety solutions tailored to their operational needs.

If you would like to review your site’s heat stress management procedures or discuss your Health & Safety obligations, our team is here to help.

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