Indoor Workers Increasingly Vulnerable to Heat-Related Illnesses

The sweltering heat is no longer just an outdoor threat; it is increasingly impacting indoor workers, particularly those in demanding environments like school cafeterias and factory engine rooms. Jeon Soon-ja, a cafeteria worker with 22 years of experience, describes her daily struggle with sweat-soaked uniforms and the commonality of heat-related skin issues during summer months.

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Even with air conditioning, it's ineffective during cooking. We get heat rashes every summer.

"Even with air conditioning, it's ineffective during cooking," Jeon explained. "We get heat rashes every summer." She advocates for facility improvements, such as better ventilation and cooling, and suggests adjusting menus to reduce heat-intensive cooking methods during peak summer. Her experience highlights a growing trend: heat-related occupational illnesses are rising even within indoor settings.

Data from the Korea Workers' Compensation and Welfare Service reveals a significant increase in recognized indoor heat-related occupational diseases. Cases rose from 2 in 2022 to 19 in 2024, with 4 already recorded this year as of July. Vulnerable indoor locations include school kitchens, confined factory spaces, and areas for welding and plating.

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The current Industrial Safety Act's provision for work stoppage only applies in cases of 'imminent danger,' a vague clause that is rarely invoked for indoor work. He stresses the need for mandatory regulations rather than mere recommendations.

Experts emphasize the need for stronger protections. Labor attorney Kwon Dong-hee points out that the current Industrial Safety Act's provision for work stoppage only applies in cases of "imminent danger," a vague clause that is rarely invoked for indoor work. He stresses the need for mandatory regulations rather than mere recommendations. Lee Min-jeong from the Korean Public Service and Transport Workers' Union calls for immediate facility upgrades, noting that workers often cannot stop working due to meal service schedules, despite extreme heat and humidity.

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Heat generated during cooking, as well as during washing with hot water, increases both temperature and humidity. However, work stoppages are difficult due to meal service schedules, so facility improvements like ventilation and cooling are necessary.