Bosses must follow heat guidelines for the sake of workers

The approach of summer is a daunting prospect for Hong Kong’s outdoor workers and others labouring in conditions of intense heat. This year is forecast to be another scorcher. New guidelines intended to protect employees from heatstroke and related risks have been unveiled by the government. They will take effect on Monday. The move is a positive step, just in time for the hottest months, but the effectiveness of the guidelines will depend on the extent to which employers observe them.

The advice is linked to the city’s heat index, which gauges the impact of high temperatures and humidity. There will be a three-tier system, warning of high, very high or extremely high heat stress. Employers are expected to respond to the alerts, ensuring adequate steps are taken to protect employees. Those in jobs requiring the most intense physical activity, such as scaffolding or bar-fixing, are advised to stop work if red or black warnings are issued. There is also guidance on the amount of rest required, depending on the job and alert level. The guidelines include common sense advice for employers, such as ensuring workers have access to cool drinking water and shelter, and equipping and clothing them appropriately for hot weather work. Special attention needs to be given to new employees and those unfamiliar with working in high temperatures, as studies have shown them to be at higher risk of heatstroke.

Employers are required by law to provide a safe and healthy environment for their staff “so far as is practicable”. But there is a need to ensure compliance. Companies are encouraged to consult employees on the latest guidelines and reach a consensus on the procedures to be adopted. Ultimately, however, safety will depend on employers being responsible, following the guidelines and protecting their workers.

Last year, amid one of the hottest summers on record, surveys showed high levels of heat-related illness suffered by workers in certain vulnerable sectors. There will be a need for the government to conduct frequent and thorough inspections. The guidelines must be promoted so that both employers and workers are aware of them. A culture must also be developed in which workers feel free to speak up if they have concerns about risks or believe the guidelines are not being followed. This also applies to broader measures intended to ensure workplace safety.

Legislation may, in time, be required to underpin the guidelines and provide clear penalties for breaches. The Hong Kong Observatory has forecast this year is likely to be among the 10 hottest on record, with extreme heat expected. There is no excuse for failing to ensure workers exposed to the heat are safe and healthy.