Hong Kong issues second amber alert under new heat-warning system for workers amid industry calls to boost public awareness
- First alert on Thursday went mostly unnoticed by workers, while second signal issued at 10.40am on Friday is cancelled after hour
- Lawmaker Lam Chun-sing says new guidelines implemented so hastily management unable to properly prepare
Hong Kong on Friday issued its second amber signal under a new heat-warning system after the first alert a day before went unnoticed by many workers, amid calls from industry leaders for authorities to strengthen public communication.
The latest amber signal was issued at 10.40am and cancelled an hour later, with the Labour Department appealing to outdoor workers and those toiling close to heat sources or in environments without air conditioning to take appropriate measures to prevent heatstroke.
Under the new guidelines launched on Monday, workers are advised to take breaks of 15 to 45 minutes per hour when the amber alert is in effect, depending on their categorised level of job intensity.
“Employees who work outdoors or in non-air-conditioned indoor environments face high levels of heat stress and are at a relatively higher risk of heatstroke,” a spokesman earlier said.
“Employers should assess the risk factors of heat stress for employees at work and, based on the identified conditions, take necessary preventive and control measures.”
Arrangements included rescheduling work periods, setting up shelters and providing ventilation and heat dissipation equipment, as well as reminding employees to drink enough water and rest in a timely manner.
But some outdoor workers were left confused on Thursday as they were unaware Hong Kong had issued its first amber heat signal under the new system. The alert, which follows a newly developed heat index, was issued at 1.50pm and cancelled at 3.50pm.