Minister Kim Young-hoon of the Ministry of Employment and Labor conducted an unannounced inspection at the Coupang Dongtan logistics center on the afternoon of the 30th to check whether safety measures for heat waves are being properly observed in the workplace. A 'heat wave warning' is currently in effect for most areas nationwide.
The Ministry of Employment and Labor stated that Minister Kim visited the Coupang Dongtan logistics center in Hwaseong at approximately 1:30 p.m. to assess the working and resting conditions of workers during the heat wave. This is the second site inspection following the construction site inspections on the 22nd.
The inspection results revealed that the logistics center has a 'multilayered shelving structure,' which makes it vulnerable to heat-related illnesses due to stagnant air circulation inside. It was also noted that there is a lack of cooling and ventilation facilities, as well as resting facilities equipped with cooling devices or cool water to help lower workers' body temperatures during their breaks. In response, the Ministry of Employment and Labor has instructed improvements.
Minister Kim stated, "Safety is not an expense but an investment for life," and emphasized, "In the midst of extreme heat waves occurring daily, workers should be able to take breaks by drinking cool water regularly in close proximity to their work sites." He added, "Please strictly adhere to the 'basic safety rules for heat waves.'"
According to the 'five basic safety rules for heat waves,' employers must provide workers with a break of at least 20 minutes within every two hours of work in temperatures exceeding 33 degrees. In temperatures exceeding 35 degrees, more proactive measures are required, and breaks of at least 15 minutes every hour are recommended.