DOLE orders upgrade of workplace disaster-readiness protocols
By Trixee Rosel
Published Dec 2, 2025 01:42 pm
At A Glance
- DOLE directs establishments to upgrade disaster-readiness systems.
- Labor Advisory No. 15 defines disruptive events and mandates safety programs.
- Employers must implement safeguards, evacuation protocols, and provide protective equipment.
- Work may be suspended during imminent danger; essential services must maintain minimum staff.
- Employees raising safety concerns will not face sanctions; DOLE to ensure compliance.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has directed all establishments to strengthen their disaster-readiness systems and labor protection measures as disruptive events increasingly threaten worker safety.
In Labor Advisory No. 15, Series of 2025, signed by DOLE Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma on Nov. 15, the department defined disruptive events as natural or human-induced hazards that put workers at risk.
These hazards include disasters, industrial accidents, and public health emergencies that can disrupt business operations.
Titled “Promoting Labor and Management Preparedness and Protecting Labor Rights During Imminent Danger Arising from Disruptive Events,” the advisory instructs employers to adopt comprehensive safety programs before, during, and after emergencies.
Under the directive, establishments must implement planning measures, engineering safeguards for facilities, and administrative systems such as evacuation and communication protocols.
They are also required to provide adequate personal protective equipment to ensure safe emergency response.
Employers are instructed to suspend work when conditions pose imminent danger and to implement flexible work arrangements when necessary.
Those operating essential utilities, health services, and other critical functions must maintain a minimum workforce to sustain operations.
The policy reiterates the “no work, no pay” rule during work suspensions unless company policies or collective agreements provide more favorable conditions.
Workers are reminded to follow safety measures, use protective equipment, avoid obstructing emergency operations, and immediately report any imminent threats.
DOLE emphasized that employees who refuse to report for duty or raise safety concerns during emergencies must not face administrative sanctions.
The department said it will maintain strict oversight to ensure establishments comply with the advisory.