The new black uniforms for security officers threaten their physical and mental wellbeing because they absorb heat, an academic said recently.

Abdullah Al-Misned, who works in the geography department at Qassim University, has urged Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Naif, second deputy premier and interior minister, to reject the uniform for officers.

“Black is not suitable for Saudi Arabia because of the high temperatures. It is appropriate for cold countries.”

He said white clothes reflect the sun’s heat while black clothing absorbs it. Black clothes are particularly problematic because temperatures often reach 50 degrees Celsius in summer, he said.

Al-Misned said the uniform would lead to health and psychological problems such as thermal fatigue, breathing difficulties and sunstroke. In addition, this would affect the productivity of officers working outside.

“This occurs in dry conditions. However, there would be more difficulties for officers working in the Eastern Province and Jeddah, where there are high levels of humidity. This would sap their strength.”

He said the government should conduct a study on the type of clothing needed to suit the Saudi environment. White clothing or light colors were preferable, he said.