Heat Stroke Preventative Measures: Labor Department (LD)

Thermometer in front of an urban skyline during heatwave

A reminder was sent out by the Labor Department (LD) to employers and employees about the heat stress at work and what they should do to take appropriate measures during this period.

By doing so, they could prevent heat stroke when working in hot or hot environments.

Those who work outdoors or in non-air-conditioned indoor environments are at higher risk of heat stress and of heat stroke.

Employers should assess the risk factors of heat stress of their employees at work, including rescheduling work periods, setting up shading covers, providing ventilation and heat dissipation equipment, and reminding employees to drink regularly and to have an adequate rest time.

According to the Labor Department, formulated Heat Stress at Work Warning, there are three levels of warning: Amber, Red, and Black.

They were created to help employers to better identify the level of heat stress while working outdoors or indoors without any air-conditioning systems.

Furthermore, employees who work outdoors or at non-air-conditioned indoor workplaces should have a rest break every hour as far as reasonably practicable, based on the Heat Stress at Work Warning Index.

Symptoms related to heat illnesses include headache, dizziness, thirst, and nausea.

Once they’re presented with these symptoms, they should rest at cool and shaded places, drink water, and inform their employers/supervisors to take appropriate actions immediately.

For the Heat Stress at Work Warning and related guidelines, please refer to the department’s thematic webpage: www.labour.gov.hk/eng/news/prevention_of_heat_stroke_at_work.htm