Trabaho Party-list bats for paid water breaks for workers amid scorching heat
At A Glance
- Both the public and private sectors must be mindful of their respective industries and workplace set-ups in order to protect workers from dangerously high heat indices all over the country.
(Unsplash)
Both the public and private sectors must be mindful of their respective industries and workplace set-ups in order to protect workers from dangerously high heat indices all over the country.
Thus, said Trabaho Party-list on Monday, April 21 as it pointed to a forecast from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) indicating that temperatures in Metro Manila could soar up to 42 degrees celsius--a level categorized as dangerous.
Recognizing the severe health risks associated with extreme heat such as exhaustion, heatstroke, and exacerbation of chronic health conditions, Trabaho Party-list spokesperson lawyer Mitchell Espiritu urged both government agencies and private employers to implement alternative work arrangements.
Moreover, where onsite works are necessary, he urged allowing workers to have more periodic water and rest breaks in shaded areas.
And to ensure employee compliance to necessary hydration breaks, Espiritu further reminded the employers to clearly communicate that these short breaks will still be considered part of the paid working hours.
While noting that there is an absence of strong national regulations adapting to this pattern of dangerous heat index, the lawyer pointed out that there is an existing Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) rule--Labor Advisory No. 8.
Pro-labor reform celebrity advocate Melai Cantiveros-Francisco reminds Navoteños to drink more water and to stay in shaded areas during a motorcade campaign with Trabaho Party-list nominee Johanne Bautista (Contributed photo).
The advisory--issued in 2023--requires employers to allow workers to use temperature-appropriate uniforms and personal protective equipment, as well as to provide them with free and adequate drinking water.
Trabaho Party-list's call to action reflected its ongoing commitment to look after Filipino workers' welfare.
“Implementing such measures is crucial to mitigate the adverse effects of this deadly heat on workers' health and productivity,” added Espiritu, as he underscored the importance of proactive strategies to protect the workforce from harsh temperatures.