RIYADH: The minister of human resources and social development, Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, issued a decision on Wednesday to approve work environment requirements for the security guard sector. They are to be applied to security services institutions and their respective private sector companies that directly or indirectly employ security guards or agencies obligated to establish private security. The requirements classify three categories: Internal environment in commercial complexes, such as banks; external environment outside buildings and exposed to fluctuating climate conditions; and remote areas, including facilities under construction and those away from urban areas. The law prohibits security guards on duty from working for five continuous hours without a period of rest, prayer and food, provided that the break is not less than half an hour at a time. A uniform must be provided for security guards in the facility, and adherence to what was stated in the procedural guide for occupational health and safety to prevent the effects of exposure to ultraviolet radiation and sun stroke. Guidelines also stipulate equipment that the facility owner must provide, which differs from one facility to another according to the work environment in which the security guard works. This decision contributes to raising the quality of work in the security sector and the productivity of its employees, enhancing the sector’s attractiveness and improving health and safety. The minister calls on private sector companies and establishments — to which this decision applies — to comply with its requirements within a period not exceeding 180 days from the date of publishing this decision via the ministry’s website. It confirms that it will take all necessary measures to ensure compliance with its implementation, and impose penalties on violating facilities. Earlier this month, the Council of Ministers headed by King Salman approved regulations that endorse the installation of surveillance cameras in public places. They are enforced in residential buildings, hotels, gyms, government, private and health institutions, and mosques — including the Prophet’s Mosque and the Grand Mosque.