The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Friday, March 7, urged employers to implement heat protection measures for workers, particularly those in construction and factory settings, as rising temperatures heighten the risk of heat-related illnesses.

“We remind employers to assess the health of workers with comorbidities and evaluate their risk of heat stroke when working under extreme conditions,” said DOLE Bureau of Working Conditions Director Alvin Curada in an interview on PTV’s Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon.

To address growing concerns, DOLE has ramped up monitoring efforts, particularly in the construction sector, where workers face prolonged sun exposure.

The DOLE said that labor inspectors nationwide are ensuring compliance with safety regulations, including the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats, appropriate clothing, and access to shaded areas.

To further mitigate heat-related risks, DOLE encouraged employers to implement flexible work arrangements.

Adjusting work hours to avoid peak heat periods—between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.—is a key recommendation, according to the labor department.

Under this setup, outdoor work shifts could start earlier in the morning and resume later in the afternoon, reducing exposure to the harsh midday sun.

In addition to adjusting work hours, DOLE recommended mandatory 30-minute rest breaks every two to three hours, access to ample drinking water, and the establishment of designated recovery areas for workers.

For indoor workers, particularly those in factories, DOLE stressed the importance of proper ventilation to alleviate heat stress.

Employers were also encouraged to implement cooling measures and consider alternative work arrangements, such as telecommuting, for employees more vulnerable to extreme temperatures due to pre-existing health conditions.

Curada emphasized that failure to comply with such safety measures could lead to administrative fines, with penalties reaching up to P50,000 per day for violations, such as the absence of required personal protective equipment, as outlined in Department Order 198.

Despite the extreme heat experienced during last year’s El Niño phenomenon, DOLE reported no labor violations, attributing the success to the agency’s collaboration with the Construction Industry Tripartite Council.

The partnership facilitated the enforcement of adjusted work schedules, additional rest breaks, and effective heat mitigation strategies across worksites.

Employees who feel their workplace is not adhering to heat protection standards are encouraged to contact DOLE’s regional, provincial, or field offices, or call the agency’s hotline at 1349 for immediate assistance.