A recent survey by a prominent labour rights group reveals that about 40% of employers in Hong Kong have insufficient measures to prevent heat stroke among workers during hot weather, raising concerns about workplace safety as temperatures continue to rise.
The Association for the Rights of Industrial Accident Victims conducted the survey between June and August 2024, polling approximately 400 workers, primarily from the construction and cleaning sectors. The findings, released Thursday, paint a troubling picture of worker welfare during periods of extreme heat.
Nearly half of the respondents reported feeling unwell while working in hot conditions, citing symptoms such as dizziness and headaches. The study also uncovered a widespread lack of adequate rest periods during high temperatures.
Alarmingly, 40% of workers surveyed stated they were not provided with the basic recommended rest of 10 to 15 minutes every two hours. Furthermore, almost half did not receive additional rest time even when a Heat Stress at Work Warning was in effect.
Siu Sin-man, who heads the association, attributes this issue partly to employers misinterpreting guidelines from the Labour Department. “There’s a misconception that providing cooling equipment or measures during heat warnings allows for a reduction in rest time,” Siu explained. “This is misleading. Workers should have both the basic rest time and extra rest during heat warnings.”
The group is calling on the government to emphasize the importance of basic rest periods and eliminate policies that allow for rest time reduction. Siu also highlighted the need for stronger legal backing to ensure employer compliance with heat safety recommendations.
“The current guidelines lack legal weight, which may contribute to some employers’ reluctance to proactively implement these measures,” Siu said. She expressed hope for future legislation that would hold employers accountable for worker safety during extreme heat conditions.
As global temperatures continue to rise due to climate change, the issue of heat-related workplace safety is likely to become increasingly critical. This study underscores the urgent need for clearer regulations and stricter enforcement to protect vulnerable workers in Hong Kong’s sweltering summers.
