Editorial | End confusion over Hong Kong workers’ heat alerts
- Many of those toiling outside during Hong Kong’s scorching summer days remain unaware of the new system, despite warnings having already been issued
The amber heat stress alert for workers has been issued two days in a row in Hong Kong. This is the first time a new warning system has been in place to help reduce the occupational risk for those working in hot environments.
But whether workers actually benefit from it is another matter.
As widely reported in the local media, some workers were apparently unaware of the official guidelines that give them rest periods. The authorities must step up publicity and education regarding compliance so workers will be protected.
It does not take an official warning to highlight the risk to those working in intense heat. For a city notorious for its hot and humid summers, the plight of those working long hours in a non-air conditioned environment has to be experienced to be fully understood.
The new government, to its credit, has shown more sympathy on this front. While it rejected calls to make heatstroke an occupational illness, a three-tier heat stress warning system was rolled out earlier to provide workers with some relief.