DOLE reminds employers of safety measures for heat stress

FILE: HEALTH HAZARD. Commuters wait for a ride under intense heat along Elliptical Road in Quezon City on Thursday afternoon (April 20, 2023). (PNA photo by Joan Bondoc)

MANILA – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Friday reminded employers to observe health and safety measures to prevent and control heat stress and minimize its impact at the workplace.

In a statement, the DOLE reiterated Labor Advisory No.

8, series of 2023, recommending measures to avoid heat stress, which includes reducing extreme heat exposure of employees through adequate ventilation and heat insulation in workplaces; and adjusting their rest breaks or work locations.

Workers should also be allowed to use temperature-appropriate uniforms and personal protective equipment; and should be provided with free and adequate drinking water.

The DOLE-recommended schemes include conducting advocacy campaigns on identifying and addressing symptoms of heat stress at the workplace and establishing procedures and information networks to address heat-related emergencies.

The health and safety measure advisory also urges employers, with the concurrence of the workers, to adopt flexible work arrangements that allow work hours adjustments while maintaining the total number of work hours within the day or week until the weather condition has improved.

At the same time, employers are encouraged to coordinate with the DOLE Regional Offices and Occupational Safety and Health Center-Regional Extension Units for technical assistance in reviewing and developing safety and health measures related to heat stress prevention and control at the workplace.

The Department issued the reminder amid the El Niño phenomenon.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Friday announced that hotter days are ahead caused by the natural phenomenon.

Summer, or the hot and dry season, in the Philippines is from March until May.