'Heat-stroke guidelines not working for cleaners'
A livelihood group said on Friday that the government's guidelines on preventing heat stroke are not working to protect street cleaners during very hot weather because of a lack of awareness and understanding of them, and the heavy workload of cleaners. The government implemented a three-tier warning system in May, advising employers to allow for rest breaks to prevent heat stroke among workers when alerts are activated. The Concern for Grassroots’ Livelihood Alliance spoke to almost 100 cleaners in Mong Kok last month and found that about half of them had not even heard of the guidelines. Its community organiser Ivy Hui told an RTHK programme that many of the others didn't understand the guidelines. "We all welcome the government's efforts. However, in reality, it's been difficult to achieve the desired effect. If the workers do not recognise or understand the guidelines, they cannot effectively serve their purpose," Hui said. She added that the heavy workload of cleaners, especially in the busy Mong Kok district, may be another reason why they do not choose to rest in very hot weather. "They may be afraid of working overtime or getting complaints about dirty streets. In fact, when they face such pressures, they feel that they should just do the work first," she said. Hui also noted that under the guidelines, cleaners who are provided with tiny fans can have their suggested heat-stress break time reduced. "The suggested break-time deduction because of the provision of fans is 15 minutes. So, if an amber heat alert is issued, from the company's perspective, cleaners do not need to take a break at all." She urged the government to provide on-the-job training on avoiding heat exhaustion and heat stroke; review the workload of street cleaners; and develop guidelines that consider the age and medical history of workers. Last month, Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions also called on the government to introduce laws, rather than guidelines, to offer cleaners better protection.  But labour chief Chris Sun said the government has no intention to bring in new legislation.  “Having a guideline is, for this moment, the most balanced approach to deal with the challenge of climate change,” he said.