인권위 “교정시설 취사장 작업환경 개선, 휴일 추가 보장해야”

The Human Rights Committee expressed the view that the living conditions and safety of users working at correctional facility canteens need improvement and adequate holiday provisions must be ensured. On the 11th of last month, they informed the Ministry of Justice about their concerns, including securing additional holiday arrangements and reviewing the appropriateness of equipment and tools used in the canteens.

A user named ㄴㄴ, detained at ㄱ Prison since March 2024, claims to have worked more than 80 hours a week, exceeding the legal maximum of 52 hours per week, and only having 1-2 holidays per month. They also alleged that safety gear like rubber gloves was not properly provided, and incentive payments were below the minimum wage. A civil society group filed a complaint with the Human Rights Committee in July last year. ㄱ Prison affirmed that the actual working hours, excluding meals, breaks, and personal hygiene time for canteen workers, do not exceed 52 hours per week, aligning with the 'Penalty Enforcement and Treatment of Detainees Act' regarding working hours.

Additionally, they argued that the safety equipment provided is necessary for the job and not merely a policy generosity. Upon reviewing the situation, the Human Rights Committee's Inquiry Committee concluded that the detainees typically have a meal, exercise, rest, and personal hygiene time when not working, which is deducted from their work hours.

They also found that the safety store contained ample supplies of rubber gloves, rubber boots, latex gloves, cleaning gloves, and sanitary napkins, contradicting the initial complaint. The Inquiry Committee dismissed the complaint, but emphasized that safety management at the facility appears lacking, especially considering the complainant's reported injury.

They urged the improvement of working conditions for canteen users, ensuring holiday provisions to enhance work quality and prevent accidents. They further stressed the need to assess the safety and harmlessness of safety tools and chemicals used within the correctional facility, and the importance of wearing appropriate safety gear such as helmets and rubber gloves.