Employers reminded: Protect workers from threats of El Niño

Local

LABOR officials in the region urged stricter workplace safety measures as rising temperatures, El Niño conditions, and lingering air quality issues continue to threaten workers’ health.

Dr. Efren Vito, Chief of the Technical Support and Services Division of the Labor Relations and Standards of Deparment of Labor and Employment-Central Visayas (Dole-7), called on employers and employees to prioritize safety by following government-issued guidelines against heat stress.

During a press conference on Wednesday, April 22, for the World Safety and Health Day and Labor Day celebrations, Vito cited Labor Advisory No. 08, Series of 2023, stressing that employers must implement measures to prevent and control heat stress in the workplace.

He said the advisory, anchored on Article 168 of the Labor Code, requires all private sector employers to assess workers’ exposure to extreme heat, especially those with conditions such as hypertension and kidney disease, and to apply appropriate control measures.

Vito said these measures include improving workplace ventilation and heat insulation, adjusting rest breaks or work locations to allow recovery from heat exposure.

He said that employers must provide temperature-appropriate uniforms and protective equipment, and ensure workers have access to adequate drinking water, with at least two to three liters

recommended daily.

Vito said employers and workers may adopt flexible work arrangements, including adjusted work schedules, as long as total required work hours are maintained until weather conditions improve.

He said Dole regional offices, in coordination with the Occupational Safety and Health Center, are ready to provide technical assistance to help workplaces develop and strengthen safety measures against heat stress.

"With the meetings that we conduct, we believe that coordination is really essential," he said.

Engr. Gines Timosa, Regional Chief of the Occupational Safety and Health Center of Dole 7, also reminded workers to remain mindful of current air quality conditions and to wear masks when necessary, as pollution levels in some areas continue to pose risks, particularly to vulnerable groups.

Authorities also reported that air quality across Metro Cebu has improved significantly, with haze largely clearing due to stronger winds that dispersed fine particulate matter.

Monitoring showed areas such as Talisay City dropping to an Air Quality Index of 98, now under the “fair” category, though officials advised sensitive groups to still limit prolonged outdoor exposure.

The general public may resume normal activities but remain alert to respiratory discomfort, while mask use is now optional except for vulnerable individuals.

Meanwhile, Dole-7 is expanding its Occupational Safety and Health Barangay Patrol Program as workplace accidents continue to rise.

The agency recorded seven incidents affecting 34 workers, including two deaths, as of April this year, with electrical hazards and falls from height among the leading causes, particularly in the construction and logistics sectors.

The expanded program strengthens barangay-level monitoring, with regular and surprise inspections to ensure compliance.

Establishments with violations will be issued notices and required to correct deficiencies or face penalties if they fail to comply.

The agency is also rolling out free online safety training and awareness campaigns to promote a culture of prevention, stressing that workplace accidents remain avoidable with proper safety measures in place.(MyTVCebu)