Labour unions call for mandatory heatstroke-prevention equipment for workers

Labour unions in Hong Kong have urged employers to mandate the provision of heatstroke-prevention equipment for outdoor workers amid rising concerns over worker safety during extreme heat conditions. The call comes following record-breaking temperatures in the city earlier this month, which have raised alarms among labor advocates and health officials alike. The demand was made public on Saturday by representatives of several trade unions, including the Hong Kong Construction Industry Employees General Union. Chau Sze-kit, the union’s chairman, emphasized that many workers, particularly those engaged in physically demanding tasks under direct sunlight, require access to specialized gear such as fan-cooled jackets. These items, he noted, can exceed HK$1,000 (approximately US$128) per unit, creating a financial strain on both workers and their families. According to Chau, these jackets are considered essential personal protective equipment, as they effectively reduce body temperature and mitigate the risk of heat-related illnesses. The unions also proposed adding heatstroke to the list of recognized statutory occupational diseases. This would enable affected workers to seek compensation through official channels, ensuring they receive adequate medical care and financial support. The move reflects growing awareness of the dangers posed by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially in industries where physical exertion is common. The push for improved protections follows a series of incidents involving heat exhaustion and heatstroke among outdoor workers. While specific numbers of affected individuals were not disclosed, reports indicate that multiple cases have been documented in recent weeks. Health authorities have warned that the frequency of such occurrences is likely to increase unless preventive measures are implemented promptly. Outdoor workers, including construction laborers and street vendors, have expressed frustration over the lack of available resources. Many rely on basic cooling methods, such as water bottles and shaded areas, which offer limited relief. Some workers have reportedly resorted to using fans or makeshift cooling solutions due to the unavailability of proper equipment. Chau highlighted that the current system does not adequately address the immediate needs of those working in hazardous thermal environments. Employers, however, have yet to respond publicly to the union's demands. In the absence of clear guidelines or regulatory mandates, some companies continue to operate without providing heatstroke prevention tools. This has led to ongoing debates within the labor sector about the responsibilities of both management and government bodies in safeguarding worker welfare. As the summer months approach, the likelihood of further heatwaves increases, heightening the urgency for action. With temperatures projected to rise in the coming weeks, the need for comprehensive policies becomes even more pressing. Workers and their advocates remain hopeful that discussions will lead to tangible changes, ensuring safer working conditions for all.