Labour unionists on Tuesday called on the authorities to introduce laws to better protect workers who need to work in hot environments.

While the government said last week that it is working to update its guideline on preventing heat stroke for workers, the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions' Occupational Safety and Health Association said that’s simply not enough to protect the well-being of workers.

“Some employers may not obey [the heat stroke prevention guidelines], so we think legislation is good for the workers, because employers must obey the instructions," said the association’s vice-chairman, Ip Wai-man.

The association said employers should be legally-bound to provide rest breaks for those who need to work when the Very Hot Weather Warning is in force, and even halt operations during extreme heat.

Ip also urged bosses to conduct regular risk assessment and provide protective gear for employees to protect them from being exposed to the sweltering heat.