Business establishments reminded vs Covid-19 

BUSINESS establishments in Central Luzon were reminded to be vigilant in keeping workplaces safe from the spread of coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) issued the reminder amid the rising cases of Covid-19 despite the ongoing rollout of the different vaccines in the country.

DTI-Central Luzon Director Leonila Baluyut cited Joint Advisory 21-01, issued March 9, which told business owners to strictly implement health protocols in their respective workplaces to prevent the spread of various variants of Covid-19.

Baluyut said while the government is in the process of opening up the economy by allowing operational capacity of business establishments and activities, it is also of utmost importance to remain mindful of the workplace health and safety guidelines.

Among the common mandatory health and safety protocols given to establishments allowed to operate are contact tracing mechanisms for clients, guests, examinees and visitors and health declaration form for workers, and thermal scanning of all personnel, clients and suppliers.

Provision of sanitizers and disinfecting chemicals on the hands of personnel, guest, clients and workers prior to entry; regular interval of sanitation of hands; strict enforcement of “No Face Mask and Face Shield, No Entry” policy; proper ventilation and exhaust system in the establishment; distancing of chairs, desks and tables; queuing areas complying with at least one meter distance; regular cleaning of high touch surfaces and proper sanitation of workplaces, trash areas and restrooms must also be implemented.

The DTI also reminded business establishments that there are penalty provisions for those firms that are found not implementing health and safety protocols in their respective workplaces.

These penalties are provided by Republic Act 11058 or An Act Strengthening Compliance with Occupancy Safety and Health Standards and Providing Penalties for Violation Thereof and DOLE Department Order 198.

The DTI and DOLE continue to conduct regular post-audit of establishments allowed to operate to check if they comply with health and safety protocols to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus.