Workplace fire-not a misfortune, but an avoidable occupational hazard in Korea

Area of Science:

• Occupational Safety and Health
• Industrial Safety
• Fire Prevention Engineering

Background:

• Workplace fires are often viewed as isolated incidents rather than systemic occupational safety and health failures.
• Previous research has not adequately addressed the specific context of workplace fires within the broader occupational health and safety framework.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze workplace fires as occupational safety and health issues.
• To investigate the root causes and consequences of major fatal fires in South Korea.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of current safety regulations and penalties.

Main Methods:

• Case study analysis of two major fatal fire incidents in South Korea.
• Review of media reports, government documents, court records, and worker advocacy group information.
• Analysis of regulatory compliance and penalty structures.

Main Results:

• Fires resulted from companies violating basic safety rules, with penalties being insufficient.
• Precarious workers faced higher risks.
• Corporate self-regulation proved ineffective, even in large organizations.

Conclusions:

• Workplace fires and explosions are preventable occupational hazards.
• Thorough enforcement of occupational safety and health regulations is essential.
• Imposing substantial penalties is necessary to deter regulatory violations and enhance workplace safety.