Heat-related illness prevention guide for foreign workers in heatwave situations.
If something goes wrong with my body, respond immediately.
In summer in Korea, temperatures rise above 35 degrees Celsius .
It can be a very dangerous environment for foreign workers working outdoors.
In particular, foreign workers engaged in construction, agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics industries
They are highly susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion.
However, many foreign workers are unaware of the following information:
- What symptoms are dangerous?
- How to deal with it
- What requests should I make to my business owner or manager?
This guide explains what symptoms foreign workers should watch out for during heat waves, how to provide emergency care, and what to ask their employers.
✅ What does this guide cover?
This guide outlines practical guidelines that foreign workers need to know to protect their health during extreme heat.
Includes:
- Symptoms to watch out for
- Emergency measures to be taken immediately
- What you can ask your business owner or manager
- Worker Rights and Safety Standards
✅ Why should I read this guide?
- Heat-related illnesses are preventable.
- When something goes wrong while you're working, it's your right to say "let's take a break."
- Korean law mandates rest and protection for workers during extreme heat.
🔺 React immediately when you experience these symptoms!
| Symptoms | meaning | action |
|---|---|---|
| I have a headache | Heatstroke or sunstroke warning signs | Move to the shade immediately and drink water. |
| I feel dizzy, my vision is blurry | Risk of dehydration or low blood pressure | Stop working, sit down and rest |
| Muscles cramp | Salt deficiency, dehydration symptoms | Drink electrolyte drinks and rest is necessary |
| The sweat stopped | Suspected heatstroke (dangerous!) | Request immediate emergency action |
| The skin is red and hot | Failure to regulate body temperature | Cool with cold water or ice |
🧍♂️ Emergency measures I should take
1. Stop working immediately.
→ Never continue working if you feel unwell.
2. Move to a cool place (shade or indoors).
3. Drink water or an electrolyte drink slowly.
4. You need to cool down your body.
→ Wash your hands, feet, and face with cold water
→ Place ice or a wet towel behind your neck.
5. Ask for help from colleagues around you and, if necessary, call 119.
📣 What to ask your business owner or safety manager
| Request details | reason |
|---|---|
| “I feel strange right now. I need some rest.” | Report symptoms immediately |
| “We’re running low on water. Please give us more to drink.” | Dehydration is dangerous |
| “We don’t have enough shade. We need a place to rest.” | Securing an environment to cool down the body temperature |
| “Where is the first aid kit?” | If heatstroke or dehydration occurs, immediate action is required. |
📌 Basic Rights of Foreign Workers
- If your body temperature rises, you have the right to temporarily stop working.
- You can take a break for at least 20 minutes every two hours.
- It is your right to refuse or take time off when you have health problems.
💬 JobPloy
JobPloy is for foreign workers working in Korea.
We've prepared this guide to help you work safely and healthily.
Check it out now and stay safe even in the hot summer.