Labour Ministry urges factories to step up worker safety during hot season

PHNOM PENH, March 5 (KPT) – Cambodia’s Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training on Wednesday urged factory and enterprise owners to strengthen workplace safety measures to prevent workers fainting during periods of extreme heat.

Spokesperson Sun Mesa said employers should pay close attention to occupational health and safety as temperatures rise, reflecting the concern of Labour Minister Heng Sour for workers’ wellbeing and for maintaining stable operations.

The ministry outlined measures for the hot season, including inspecting and maintaining ventilation systems and operating them at least one hour before shifts begin.

Employers were advised to open windows and doors where possible, install additional fans in poorly ventilated areas, and ensure materials are stored safely.

Factories should provide sufficient clean drinking water, encourage workers to hydrate regularly and wear appropriate clothing, the statement said.

Other recommendations included spraying water on building roofs twice daily to reduce heat, assigning staff to monitor workplace temperatures, and reinforcing health guidance through internal communication systems such as audio announcements.

The ministry said employers and workers could contact its hotline, 1286, or submit complaints through its anonymous reporting system to enable risk assessments of potential heat-related health threats.

Cambodia experiences high temperatures during the dry season, which can pose health risks to workers, particularly in enclosed industrial settings.