Focusing on Preventing Heat-related Illnesses Among Workers
Thorough Inspection of Rest Facilities and Safety Equipment
Yangju City in Gyeonggi Province announced on July 31 that it had conducted a special safety inspection of apartment construction sites within its jurisdiction, in accordance with the Prime Minister's guidelines for responding to summer heat waves.
Yangju City is conducting special safety inspections on apartment construction sites within its jurisdiction. Photo by Yangju City
This inspection was carried out as a disaster and safety management measure to prevent heat-related illnesses among workers and to improve working conditions. The Deputy Mayor of Yangju City and relevant departments jointly conducted a thorough on-site inspection.
The main items inspected included: ▲ the availability of cooling equipment at construction sites; ▲ the installation and operation of rest facilities such as shaded areas and air conditioners; ▲ whether workers were wearing safety equipment; ▲ the establishment and implementation of internal plans and training for heat wave preparedness; ▲ the provision of cooling supplies; and ▲ whether education on the prevention of heat-related illnesses was being conducted.
In particular, the team directly checked on-site whether cooling devices such as air conditioners and fans were actually operating, whether drinking water was provided, and the status of protective equipment such as ice towels and ice makers. They also thoroughly investigated whether rest breaks were guaranteed during the hottest hours of the day.
Additionally, the team verified through a checklist whether internal safety plans for heat wave preparedness had been established and whether training and drills were being carried out, and urged thorough on-site management to ensure that no deficiencies occurred.
The Deputy Mayor of Yangju City stated, "If the perceived temperature rises above 35 degrees Celsius due to the heat wave, please actively respond by suspending work at construction sites." A construction official responded, "We will prioritize the health management of workers and operate the site by adjusting working hours and modifying the construction schedule as needed."
Yangju City said, "We will strengthen multifaceted on-site inspections to prevent accidents at construction sites in advance due to heat waves and to ensure that workers can work in a safe environment," and added, "We ask for thorough preparation and cooperation from business owners and on-site managers."
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