On June 2, Ryu Hyun-cheol, head of the Occupational Safety and Health Agency, met with Chief Safety Officers (CSOs) from logistics and distribution companies, along with representatives from related associations, to address the prevention of heat-related illnesses.
The meeting comes amid rising concerns about the potential for extreme heat this summer due to climate change, including the effects of a super El Niño. Last summer recorded the highest average temperatures since observations began, and this year is expected to exceed normal averages.
The incidence of heat-related occupational injuries has also been increasing. In the past five years, there have been a total of 228 cases of heat-related injuries due to heat waves. After remaining in the 20-30 range from 2021 to 2023, the number surged to 70 in 2024 and reached 71 in 2025.
In response, labor authorities conducted this meeting following a gathering with CEOs of major construction companies on May 29, focusing on the logistics and distribution sectors, which are particularly vulnerable to heat. During the meeting, CSOs from six major logistics companies, including CJ Logistics and Hanjin, as well as four major retailers, including E-Mart and Lotte Mart, presented their plans to implement five basic safety rules for heat waves and committed to preventing heat-related illnesses.
Ryu pointed out issues raised last summer and urged the implementation of practical measures that can operate in the field, rather than just paperwork. He specifically highlighted the need for accurate temperature measurements in front of air conditioning units in some logistics centers and the inadequate protection measures for outdoor workers.
The Ministry of Labor plans to activate a "Heat Wave Safety Task Force" until September 30, mobilizing administrative resources and recommending strict adherence to work stoppage measures based on heat wave levels. They are particularly emphasizing compliance with the five basic safety rules for heat waves, which were legislated last year.
Additionally, the ministry plans to hold relay meetings with CSOs in key sectors vulnerable to heat, such as shipbuilding, aviation, and port operations, to address gaps in heat safety in industrial workplaces.
Ryu stated, "We need to ensure accurate temperature measurements and the actual implementation of work stoppages, along with thorough management of outdoor workers in vulnerable areas. Starting from the 15th, we will mobilize local offices nationwide to rigorously supervise compliance with the five basic safety rules for heat waves."
He also urged, "Please pay special attention to ensuring that the action plans announced today in the logistics and distribution sectors are faithfully implemented on the ground. We will spare no effort to create a workplace that prioritizes safety and protects workers' lives."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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