As part of their participation in the biggest annual event on the climate agenda, COP28, the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has recognised two entities for their dedication and commitment to proactively reducing heat-related illnesses among workforce as part of the “Safety in the Heat” Programme.
The Department of Municipalities and Transport – Abu Dhabi and the Department of Energy - Abu Dhabi were presented with the “Best Proactive Sector in the Implementation of the Safety in the Heat Programme” recognising their exemplary implementation of the "Safety in the Heat" Programme. This comes in line with Abu Dhabi’s ambition to be a place where everyone can be at their healthiest, physically, and mentally, at all times, acknowledging the direct correlation between a climate crisis and a health crisis and recognising climate change as one of the world’s biggest collective challenges.
ADPHC recognises the best proactive sectors in the implementation of the “Safety in the Heat Programme" based on a set of criteria that assesses entities’ commitment to implementing and reporting their proactive measures to reduce the impact on workforce exposed to heat stress. This includes sending monthly data covering the number of workshops, audits, activities, and support initiatives.
H.E. Dr Farida Al Hosani, The Executive Director of the Infectious Disease Sector at the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) stated: "The Safety in the Heat Programme reflect ADPHC's commitment to safeguarding the health & safety of all society members. The programme is a continuation of our efforts to build a sustainable and climate-resilient healthcare system in Abu Dhabi and is a testament to our ongoing journey towards a healthier and more sustainable future. By adopting the best practices and ensuring workforce safety, we ensure that the Emirate is a place where everyone can be at their healthiest, physically and mentally. We encourage all sectors to proactively help shape a better future for all members of our community."
Reflecting its unwavering commitment to workforce well-being in the face of climate change, ADPHC tackles rising summer temperatures and associated health risks for outdoor workforce through its annual "Safety in the Heat" Programme. This initiative protects them from heat stress through awareness campaigns and preventive measures. Operating from June to September during heat peak, the Programme support the mid-day break law from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, which prohibits outdoor work in direct sunlight during the hottest hours (12:30 pm to 3:00 pm). ADPHC equips employers and supervisors with comprehensive resources, proactive measures, and training materials on heat illness prevention. These resources cover topics like hydration, heat acclimatisation, work-rest schedules, and identifying heat stress. Through the awards, the Centre recognises entities exceeding expectations in protecting their workforces in a world increasingly challenged by extreme weather events.
COP28 serves as a platform for leaders and experts from around the world to discuss and address critical issues related to climate change, taking place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from November 30 to December 12, 2023. The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi and the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre are inviting guests to visit their booth, to get to see their projects and activations. Booth number 59 is located in the Green Zone, within the Technology & Innovation Hub, while the panel discussions and sessions will be taking place in the Green Zone’s Knowledge Hub as well as the booth itself.
To know more about DoH and ADPHC’s participation at COP28, visit: https://www.doh.gov.ae/en/cop28