Labour unions call for mandatory heatstroke-prevention equipment for workers

Hong Kong labour unions have pressed for mandatory heatstroke-prevention equipment for outdoor workers during extreme temperatures. They also proposed adding heatstroke to the list of statutory occupational diseases, to simplify the process of workers claiming compensation. Chau Sze-kit, head of the Hong Kong Construction Industry Employees General Union, highlighted the need for fan-cooled jackets, which can cost over HK$1,000 each.

He urged employers to provide these jackets, similar to how safety helmets are provided. Lawmaker Lam Chun-sing proposed setting out clear requirements for personal heatstroke-prevention equipment in tender documents and considering compensation for project delays due to heatwaves. He also advocated for heatstroke to be recognized as a statutory occupational disease, a move that would reduce the burden of proof for affected workers.

Former Hong Kong Observatory director Lam Chiu-ying suggested using objective indicators, such as temperature thresholds, to determine when heatstroke is likely, shifting the burden of proof onto employers. The Labour Department's Heat Stress at Work Warning system faced criticism for failing to provide appropriate warnings despite a peak temperature of 36.9 degrees Celsius on August 9, the highest since records began in 1884.