Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has called on employers to ensure the safety of workers as the heat index soars in the coming months.
Gatchalian said companies ought to implement proactive measures that would shield ordinary workers from the adverse effects of a soaring heat index, given projections that it could reach 48 to 50 degrees Celsius from the latter part of April to the first week of May.
“Prioritizing workers’ welfare and well-being not only helps ensure their health and safety but also enhances productivity,” Gatchalian pointed out.
According to the senator, employers should consider adopting flexible work arrangements, improving ventilation to reduce heat and humidity, adjusting rest breaks to allow workers to recover from heat exposure.
Companies should also provide access to cool drinking water, and be able to assess their workers' risk to heat exposure, taking into account existing comorbidities, the lawmaker added.
For jobs that require working in high temperatures, he said employers must provide temperature-appropriate uniforms and personal protective equipment.
Gatchalian noted that the most vulnerable workers are street sweepers, traffic enforcers, construction workers, and others who are usually exposed to the elements.
At the same time, he urged government agencies, as well as local government units (LGUs), to issue clear guidelines for workplaces to mitigate the risks of extreme heat and protect workers' health and well-being.
“Mahalagang mapangalagaan ang kalusugan ng ating mga manggagawa at maiwasan ang mga sakit na dulot ng matinding init ng panahon upang mas maging produktibo sila at makapag-ambag sa ekonomiya (It is important to protect the health of our workers and prevent illnesses caused by extreme heat so that they can be more productive and contribute to the economy),” he stressed.