Coupang Logistics Service Implements Shielded Curtain System at Subhubs Nationwide
Curtains Installed to Address Concentrated Work Areas
Enhanced Heat Illness Prevention with Ceiling-Mounted Air Conditioners and Cooling Vests
Coupang Logistics Service (CLS), a logistics subsidiary of Coupang, announced on July 1 that it will be the first in the logistics industry to introduce a "shielded large-scale cooling zone" system at subhubs across the country.
An employee of Coupang Logistics Service (CLS) Cheongju Subhub is working under the air conditioner cold air coming through a large pipe. Photo by Coupang
CLS explained that, considering the nature of operations such as sorting and Fresh Bag washing, which are concentrated in specific areas, it has created shielded cooling work zones by installing curtains to prevent cold air from escaping and ceiling-mounted system air conditioners in workspaces. By minimizing the loss of cold air and adding additional cooling devices such as large ceiling fans, the company expects to further improve cooling efficiency.
According to Coupang, with the introduction of the shielded large-scale cooling zones, the temperature inside subhub workspaces can drop to as low as 20 degrees Celsius even when the outside temperature exceeds 30 degrees Celsius. In a worker satisfaction survey, about 90% of employees responded that they could feel a temperature change after the installation of the new equipment.
The shielded large-scale cooling zone is a representative example of the "concentrated cooling system" introduced by CLS. CLS also provides personal cooling items such as cooling vests, cool scarves, and cool sleeves, and keeps water purifiers, freezers, and ice water available at all times near work areas to help prevent heat-related illnesses among workers.
In addition, CLS proactively identifies and manages workers who are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, and uses self-check temperature patches to enhance the effectiveness of heat illness prevention. These temperature patches change color according to body temperature, allowing workers to monitor themselves. The company also plans to expand the installation of "cooling fog" facilities, which spray mist to lower the surrounding temperature for outdoor workers.
A CLS representative stated, "In line with the strengthened Occupational Safety and Health Act, we have invested hundreds of billions of won to lower work area temperatures to the low 20s Celsius. We are also strengthening safety and health education before work and maintaining an emergency response system at all times to prevent heat-related illnesses."
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