Hong Kong’s OSHC and Labour Department launch sponsorship scheme to help reduce workers' risk to heatstroke

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This initiative provides subsidies to SMEs and unions that are at a higher risk of heatstroke, with support for them to buy cooling products to protect their workers.

As Hong Kong enters the hot weather season, in order to help reduce the risk of heatstroke for on-site workers, the Occupational Safety and Health Council (OSHC) and the Labour Department (LD) have launched the ‘Cooling Products Sponsorship Scheme’.

This initiative provides subsidies to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and unions that are at a higher risk of heatstroke, supporting them to buy cooling products to protect their workers.

Eligible applicants can apply for this scheme until 18 July 2025 (Friday) to purchase the following cooling products at discounted prices:

• cooling vest
• upgraded solar fan
• additional power bank to extend the vest's battery life

The sponsorship is available to SMEs, charities or trusts, owners’ corporations, as well as unions in 12 high-risk industries, which include construction, security services, horticulture, outdoor cleaning, postal and courier services, freight forwarding, industries working on airport aprons, industries working at container terminals, recycling, electrical and mechanical services, laundry services, and catering.

LD reminds employers to refer to the Guidance Notes on Prevention of Heat Stroke at Work to assess the risk factors of heat stress for employees at work and, based on the identified risk factors, take necessary preventive and control measures, including rescheduling work periods, setting up shading covers, providing ventilation and heat dissipation equipment, and reminding employees to replenish water and rest in a timely manner.

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