The Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) urged all workers yesterday, especially those working outdoors or in open areas, to pay close attention to work safety in inclement weather.
A DSAL statement yesterday quoted the Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG) as saying that the weather in Macau is currently unstable with heavy showers and thunderstorms, so the Labour Affairs Bureau reminded workers to avoid going to low-lying areas or places where a flood warning is issued, adding that they should prevent their power tools from getting wet in the rain, which could cause an electric shock.
According to the statement, workers must also be aware of slippery ground, which may cause injuries if they fall. The statement added that employers should pay close attention to weather changes and promptly inform their employees while taking effective measures in advance to protect their workers’ safety when necessary.
The statement underlined that those working in heavy rain and thunderstorms should check that their electric tools are well-grounded before work, so as to avoid a lightning attack. They should also stop outdoor work during a thunderstorm and enter a safe indoor shelter. They should also remove any metal objects they may be carrying if they need to work in inclement weather. The statement added that workers should avoid staying under trees, lamp posts, or other conductive objects.
Moreover, in order to prevent slips and falls caused by slippery ground, the bureau urged workers to pay close attention to their working environment, adding that they should not stay on slopes or in dug pits and ditches, so as to avoid the risk of soil collapse.
Workers should also pay heed to the latest weather information issued by the Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau, and take appropriate measures based on current weather conditions, the statement said.
This poster provided by the Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) yesterday warns workers to work safely in severe weather.
