Air hazards: Guidelines to protect workers from them issued by Dole
MANILA, Philippines — Employers have been directed by the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) to implement workplace control measures to keep employees safe from the “potential adverse effects of poor ambient air quality.”
The order was issued as the government moves to protect workers from risks posed by smoke, haze, smog and other airborne pollutants.
This was stated in Labor Advisory No. 15, signed by Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino on Sept. 18.
READ: Metro Cebu haze eases, but air remains unhealthy for sensitive groups
Employers should use the prevailing Air Quality Index Matrix and Action Points, together with the results of their Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Control, as the basis for determining the measures that need to be implemented.
For workplaces experiencing very unhealthy air quality, the Dole said employers should, as applicable, monitor air quality advisories from relevant government agencies, implement appropriate measures and provide personal protective equipment when outdoor work cannot be avoided.
Employers are also expected to improve ventilation or air filtration in enclosed workplaces where practicable; limit, reschedule or modify strenuous outdoor activities during periods of poor air quality; and conduct information and education activities on the health effects of air pollution and applicable preventive measures.
READ: Northern Mindanao air turns ‘acutely unhealthy’ amid Indonesia wildfire
For workplaces experiencing acutely unhealthy air quality, employers are encouraged to implement flexible work arrangements, including adjusted or shifting work schedules, alternative workplace arrangements or telecommuting for workers who, based on appropriate medical advice or individual risk assessment, may be susceptible to the effects of poor ambient air quality.
Those who are still required to report for work, meanwhile, should be provided with appropriate PPE, adequate rest periods and hydration, as well as reasonable access to designated areas where exposure to the identified air pollutant is reduced.
Emergency
But in instances where air quality reaches emergency levels, the Dole said employers are advised to suspend work or implement alternative work arrangements, especially when poor air quality poses imminent danger.
The nature of their business and information issued by government agencies, such as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration and the Department of Health, should be considered.
READ: Iloilo air unhealthy for sensitive groups as haze persists
For establishments engaged in public utilities, health services and other vital operations, employers are encouraged to maintain only the minimum number of personnel needed to ensure the continuity of essential and emergency services.
The advisory applies to employers in the private sector and workers in establishments whose operations expose employees to elevated levels of air pollutants. However, it also recognizes work suspensions in the public sector when declared by the President or local governments. /mcm
Disclaimer: The comments uploaded on this site do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of management and owner of Cebudailynews. We reserve the right to exclude comments that we deem to be inconsistent with our editorial standards.
