Urgent Need for Ice Makers and Cooling Equipment...
Reviewing Support Measures
As the ongoing heatwave continues, the poor working conditions faced by school cafeteria workers have emerged as a social issue. In response, Kim Jin-nam, a member of the Jeonnam Provincial Council (Democratic Party of Korea, Suncheon 5), visited the sites in person to inspect the situation and take steps to prepare countermeasures.
On July 15, Kim, accompanied by officials from the Jeonnam Provincial Office of Education, the Suncheon Office of Education, and the provincial council, visited Jorye Elementary School and Geumdang High School in Suncheon to examine the working conditions inside the kitchens. At the sites, he listened to the voices of cafeteria workers and shared in the difficulties caused by rising kitchen temperatures.
Jin Nam Kim, a member of the Jeonnam Provincial Council, inspected the poor working conditions of school cafeteria workers and took steps to prepare countermeasures. Provided by Jeonnam Provincial Council
On this day, cafeteria workers expressed, "The temperature inside the kitchen is so high that we have to freeze ice before coming to work," and added, "Even wearing cooling vests or cool scarves does not fundamentally solve the problem." Some also pointed out, "There is a lack of equipment that actually helps, such as cooling fans or ice makers," and said, "The auxiliary equipment that has been provided is either uncomfortable or has safety issues, making it difficult to use."
Kim stated, "Hearing that you prepare ice from the morning before coming to work made my heart heavy," and added, "I was once again reminded that each school's kitchen environment is different, and there are many issues that are difficult to fully grasp without visiting the sites in person." He continued, "Through this on-site inspection, we will address practical issues such as concerns about workers suffering from exhaustion and the lack of cooling equipment at the level of the Office of Education and the council, and will do our utmost to improve policies and secure the necessary budget."
He also said, "I will continue to visit the sites and listen to the voices of those responsible for providing healthy meals to our children, so that they can work in better environments," and added, "I will strive to make the educational field safer through ongoing attention and solidarity."
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