Basilicata bans outdoor work during peak heat hours

Governor Vito Bardi of Italy's Basilicata region signed an urgent ordinance that prohibits outdoor work from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. on days identified as high‑heat risk by the Worklimate forecasting platform, a system developed by INAIL and the CNR. The decree takes effect immediately and remains in force until 15 September 2026.

The restriction covers a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, floriculture, construction, forestry, quarrying, extraction, logistics, and road or rail maintenance. Employers must reorganise work schedules, provide shaded or climate‑controlled break areas, ensure constant access to fresh water, supply appropriate clothing and inform workers about heat‑related hazards. Only minimal exemptions are allowed for emergencies, civil‑protection activities and public‑utility works, which must still implement equivalent protective measures. Compliance will be monitored by local health authorities, the national labour inspectorate, municipalities and other competent bodies.