TAIPEI (TVBS News) — With less than a month until the Lunar New Year, Taiwan braces for the coldest period this winter, expected to arrive over the weekend, Meteorological expert Peng Chi-ming said Friday (Jan. 19).
Peng clarified that there's no "cold break" or "cold wave break" in Taiwan. Under current regulations, if a cold surge causes disaster, it is classified as an "other natural disaster," potentially resulting in cessation of work or school.
Under the "Outdoor Work Safety and Health Guidelines During Cold Weather" (寒冷天氣期間戶外作業安全健康指引) and the "Occupational Safety and Health Act", the Ministry of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration, advises employers to implement occupational safety and health management plans and take necessary measures, caring for workers and considering the potential risks that cold temperatures may bring.
Employers who fail to abide by these guidelines, causing harm to workers' rights or leading to disasters, risk penalties under the law, with fines potentially reaching up to NT＄300,000.
According to reports, there was no precedent in Taiwan for holidays due to low temperatures. The only possibility for suspending work or school due to cold weather would be if low temperatures cause disaster.
In extreme cold weather conditions disrupting transportation, water, or electricity supply, cities and county chiefs may declare suspension in alignment with the "other natural disaster" guidelines based on their assessment.
