Amid the sweltering heat due to the dry season, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is strongly encouraging private establishments to implement measures that wil help reduce the risks of heat stress in the workplace.
In its Labor Advisory No. 08 - 2023, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said the private sector should consider adopting policies that will prevent workers from suffering from heat stress, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke.
"(In order) to ensure the safety and health of workers exposed to extreme heat, this Labor Advisory is hereby issued for the adoption of safety and health measures to prevent and control heat stress at the workplace," said Laguesma.
"Employers are directed to institute the following provisions to mitigate the extreme heat at work," he added.
DOLE said workplaces should work on the elimination of heat and humidity in workplaces through effective ventilation and heat insulation in all areas with workers.
It said workplaces may also adjust rest breaks or work locations to allow recovery from heat exposure.
Workers must also provide temperature-appropriate uniforms and personal protective equipment, such as hats, goggles with protection against ultraviolet rays, and comfortable light material long-sleeve t-shirts.
DOLE said employers should also provide free and adequate drinking water at the workplace with a directive for drinking at least two to three liters daily.
Laguesma said employers andworkers may also agree to adopt a flexible work arrangement in a bid to limit exposure to extreme heat and strenuous activities, by adjusting the work hours while maintaining the total number of work hours within the day or week.
The labor chief, meanwhile, directed all DOLE regional offices to provide employers and workers technical assistance in the review and development of appropriate safety and health measures to prevent and control heat stress at the workplace.
In turn, workplaces are told to engage in information and advocacy campaigns regarding symptoms and how to address heat stress.
Since the onset of the dry season, high heat indexes in several parts of the country have been recorded by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration. (HDT)