The First On-Site Inspection Day of the Year... Winter Fire and Explosion Accident Prevention Inspection

Targeting Concerned Industries Such as Manufacturing and Construction

The Ministry of Employment and Labor and the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency announced on the 8th that, in celebration of this year's first Field Inspection Day, they will conduct inspections targeting industries such as manufacturing and construction, where multiple casualties can occur during winter, to prevent fire, explosion, and collapse accidents.

Provided by the Ministry of Employment and Labor

During winter, the frequent use of heating devices and the cold, dry weather can cause sparks to fly onto surrounding flammable materials during welding and cutting operations, leading to fire and explosion accidents. The Ministry of Employment and Labor and the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency will focus on inspecting the identification and safe storage of hazardous and flammable materials within workplaces, as well as the establishment of fire hazard work plans.

In construction sites, accidents such as collapse can occur when formwork and scaffolding are dismantled before concrete has fully cured during the cold winter months. Therefore, related inspections will also be conducted. They will check compliance with the required retention periods for formwork and scaffolding, and the installation of supports to prevent concrete strength deterioration.

The Ministry of Employment and Labor and the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency will also provide guidance on the three major rules to prevent cold-related illnesses such as hypothermia and frostbite that can occur during outdoor work. The three major rules include wearing warm clothing, drinking warm water, and resting in warm shelters.

Kim Jong-yoon, Director of the Industrial Safety and Health Headquarters at the Ministry of Employment and Labor, stated, "Fire, explosion, and collapse accidents can cause large-scale casualties and property damage," and added, "It is important to comply with regulations and procedures and to thoroughly conduct regular inspections of equipment and machinery to detect potential hazards early."

He continued, "Workplaces must establish systems that can respond quickly in the event of an accident," and emphasized, "Through education and training, it is crucial to ensure that workers can respond promptly and appropriately in emergency situations."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.