Heatwave Precautions

[Anchor Lead]

Frequent heatwaves are a danger to the health of those who work outside. It is necessary to take extra precautions in the heat, since full, unprotected exposure to the sizzling weather can easily lead to heat-related ailments such as sunstroke. Let's find out more.

[Pkg]

A battle against the heat has already begun on construction sites, with heatwave alerts issued for days.

[Soundbite] "Let's wear ice vests to work!"

[Soundbite] Lee Jong-soon(Construction Worker) : "It is cooling me off."

Shades where workers can briefly escape from the scorching sun have been set up. And ice and sodium-glucose are ready at a corner. However, the situation is different at small businesses. Work is resumed after lunch. Despite the mercury already topping 30 degrees Celsius, it is up to workers to decide on how long they will rest.

[Soundbite] Kim Yoon-jong(Construction Worker) : "It is very hot. I sweat whenever I move. But I have to work to earn my bread."

Cleaners washing down buildings are exposed to the sizzling heat without defenses.

[Soundbite] Building Cleaner(Voice modified) : "I sweat a lot, of course. It is hotter, since I have to wear a rain coat and boots. And I cannot avoid the sun."

With no resting place prepared, some of the workers take a brief break lying down on the roof or in a space between frames. 17 people died from heat-related diseases such as sunstroke last year. Nearly 60 heat disease patients have already been reported this year.

[Soundbite] Prof. Hong Joo-young(Severance Hospital) : "Illnesses such as dehydration from heat or sunstroke can be caused, leading to a lower blood pressure level and prolonged pressure on the heart."

In order to prevent heat-related diseases, it is recommended to take a break in the shade on a regular basis and drink lots of water. It is also better to avoid caffeine and alcohol while working outdoors, since they can cause dehydration.