PHNOM PENH: The Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training noted that as temperatures rise, so does the risk of fires. Therefore, the Ministry of Labor has instructed all enterprises and institutions to implement fire-proofing measures in order to preserve business operations, public order and the health and safety of workers.

The Ministry recommends regular inspection and testing of fire protection systems and equipment such as fire hoses, automatic sprinklers, fire alarms and smoke alarms and the provision of automatic lighting in the event of a power outage.

Businesses need to increase the regular inspection of the power supply network, which is often the cause of fires in the workplace. They should also regularly inspect and maintain ventilation systems in the building ensuring that they are operable at least one hour before allowing workers arrive for their shift.

The Ministry also recommended opening windows and doors or adding fans for ventilation in warehouses when the weather warms up and to arrange materials in an orderly and safe manner so as not to block the air source. Additionally, businesses must monitor the use of hazardous substances, such as pesticides, and take necessary measures to respond to their potential spread.

The Ministry noted that enterprises must provide clean and hygienic drinking water to workers and stressed that if the owner or director of the enterprise does not comply with this instruction, they will be punished in accordance with the law.

The Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology predicts that temperatures in Cambodia will reach 37 degrees celsius, and that some areas may experience storms.