Seoul, South Korea – The South Korean government is stepping up efforts to protect workers from cold-related illnesses this winter, especially those in industries such as construction, cleaning, and sanitation. The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced a comprehensive "Winter Preparedness for Worker Health Protection" plan on Tuesday, which will run until March next year.
Unlike last year's focus on construction workers and special-type workers, this year's plan expands to include workers in the cleaning, security, and sanitation sectors, as well as foreign workers. This expansion is in response to data showing that over 70% of cold-related industrial accidents in the past five years occurred in outdoor work environments.
Key points of the plan include:
Expanded coverage: The plan will cover 30,000 workplaces identified as being particularly vulnerable to cold weather.
Health services: Mobile health services will be provided to workers in the cleaning and sanitation sectors, including health check-ups and consultations.
Support for delivery workers: The number of rest areas for migrant workers will be increased, and information on existing rest areas will be widely distributed.
Foreign worker support: A multilingual prevention guide will be distributed, and inspections of accommodations and rest areas for foreign workers in the agriculture and livestock sectors will be conducted.
Workplace inspections: The government will conduct inspections to ensure workplaces are following safety protocols and providing necessary equipment to protect workers from the cold.
Minister of Employment and Labor, Kim Moon-soo, visited a construction site to emphasize the importance of safety measures during the winter months. He called on employers to ensure that workers have access to warm clothing, water, and rest areas to prevent cold-related illnesses.
"Given the anticipated frequent and sudden cold snaps this winter, we must take extra precautions," Minister Kim said. "Construction sites must pay particular attention to preventing concrete from freezing and ensure that workers have adequate training in case of fire."
The government's expanded efforts aim to create a safer and healthier work environment for all workers during the harsh winter months.
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