The Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) is pushing for a flexible work arrangement to protect workers’ health. Schools and other industries are already adjusting their schedules due to hot weather and the Labor Department would like to do the same to benefit the workers.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said on Monday that flexible work arrangements can be part of precautionary measures to protect workers from heat-related illnesses.
Establishments must develop awareness on how to address heat stress at the workplace, its effect, how to recognize heat-related symptoms, and how to prevent heat-induced illnesses.
Big labor groups such as the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) and the Federation of Free Workers (FFW), among others, expressed their support for the DoLE’s move, reminding employers of Labor Advisory 8, Series of 2023, which directs all employers to conduct health risk assessment due to extreme heat and provide corresponding measures to mitigate its effects.
The TUCP called on all workplaces to double precautionary measures to protect the health and well-being of workers through a Comprehensive Heat Risk Action Plan.
For workers in industries that can have flexible arrangements, the Labor Department is proposing a “heat break,” especially for outdoor workers, during the hottest part of the day (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.), which can be facilitated through flexible work time arrangements, and a proactive monitoring system for workers to check on each other’s well-being through the so-called buddy system.
Workplace safety officers, should regularly issue hydration reminders to remind workers to drink adequate water even before they feel thirsty, coupled with better ventilation, especially in manufacturing and industrial settings, and to educate workers about identifying heat stress symptoms and appropriate responses.
Meanwhile, the FFW urged the DoLE to immediately convene the National Tripartite Industrial Council to address occupational safety and health concerns during the hot summer months.
FFW pointed out that under RA 11058, the DoLE secretary is the chief implementer of the occupational safety and health law and employers are required to comply with occupational safety and health standards, including informing workers on all types of hazards in the workplace and having the right to refuse unsafe work, as well as providing facilities and personal protective equipment for workers, among others.
“Ensuring the well-being of our workers during the hot summer months is of paramount importance,” FFW said.
With additional report: The Manila Times, William Depasupil
