Rizal 4th District Rep. Fidel Nograles called on employers to heed a labor department advisory urging them to protect workers from heat stress amid amplified hot weather due to the El Niño phenomenon.
The Department of Labor and Employment recently reminded employers regarding Labor Advisory No. 8, series of 2023, which recommends various measures to avoid heat stress.
“Gaya nga ng sabi, prevention is better than cure. Para sa mga organisasyon, mas praktikal na tutukan ang occupational safety kaysa tumugon sa epekto ng kapabayaan, na maaaring magdulot ng productivity loss, aksidente, at posibleng kaso dahil sa paglabag sa batas.”
The DOLE laid out various measures that would prevent heat stress among employees, which include reducing extreme heat exposure of employees through adequate ventilation and heat insulation in workplaces, adjustments in rest breaks and work locations, use of personal protective equipment, and access to hydration.
“Ngayong opisyal nang nagsimula ang tag-init na pinalala pa ng tagtuyot dahil sa El Niño at climate change, nananawagan tayo sa mga employer na sundin ang DOLE advisory para sa kapakanan ng ating mga empleyado,” said Nograles.
“Let us be mindful that our workers’ health and welfare results in productivity gains for the organization,” added Nograles, who chairs the House Committee on Labor and Employment.
The lawmaker warned against the negative effects of heat exposure, which he said could result in occupational illnesses and injuries.
“Gaya nga ng sabi, prevention is better than cure. Para sa mga organisasyon, mas praktikal na tutukan ang occupational safety kaysa tumugon sa epekto ng kapabayaan, na maaaring magdulot ng productivity loss, aksidente, at posibleng kaso dahil sa paglabag sa batas,” Nograles said.
Aside from the preventive measures, the DOLE also recommended conducting information campaigns to help employees identify and address symptoms of heat stress.
The department also encouraged employers to coordinate with its Regional Offices and Occupational Safety and Health Center-Regional Extension Units for technical assistance in dealing with heat stress.
