DOLE urges firms to protect workers from high temps

On Tuesday, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) urged private companies to implement measures to mitigate the effects of high temperatures in workplaces.

Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma emphasized the need for employers to comply with Labor Advisory No. 08-2023 to protect worker health and safety, noting that the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) has also suggested additional measures such as heat breaks, a buddy system, and heat orientation sessions.

The DOLE highlighted the importance of effective ventilation, heat insulation, adjusted rest breaks, and provision of appropriate uniforms and protective equipment.

Companies are advised to provide free drinking water, conduct workplace assessments for heat stress risks, and consider flexible work arrangements like adjusting work hours or allowing remote work during peak heat periods.

With projected heat indices ranging from 27 to 46 degrees Celsius across many regions, proactive measures are crucial to prevent adverse impacts on both workers and company operations.