A Study on the Prevention of Thermal Diseases in Workers in High Heat Working Environment - Around the steel mill -

Purpose: This study examined the major risk factors for heat-related illnesses in high-temperature work environments within domestic steel mills and evaluated the effectiveness of current preventive measures. A descriptive analytical approach was used, combining literature review, reported accident cases, and comparison with international guidelines such as ISO 7243 and OSHA heat-stress standards. The analysis showed that heat-related illnesses are influenced by multiple factors, including high WBGT levels, strong radiant heat from furnaces, inadequate acclimatization, limited access to shade or cooling facilities, and the thermal burden caused by personal protective equipment. Quantitative indicators-including heat illness incidence, self-reported symptoms, rest-time compliance, hydration behavior, and WBGT-symptom correlation-were used to assess preventive measures. Results indicated that the "water-shade-rest" protocol and improved rest environments helped reduce symptoms, although effectiveness remained limited under high work intensity, insufficient acclimatization, and differences in job tasks. Key implications include the need to reinforce heat acclimatization programs, expand cooling and shaded rest areas, establish standardized rest schedules based on WBGT levels, and strengthen employer and worker awareness. This study is limited by its reliance on literature and case-based data; future research should incorporate real-time exposure measurements and worker-level physiological indicators to develop more tailored heat-stress management strategies.