Create heat risk action plan for workers, firms urged

MANILA – A labor group on Friday urged companies to create a "heat risk action plan" in workplaces as the country continues to grapple with sizzling temperatures.

In a statement, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) called on employers to come up with policies and practices that will protect the health and well-being of workers from heat exhaustion.

"It is our shared moral responsibility, not only of workers who toil day in and day out not only at work but also in commuting to and from work, but also of the employers, to beat the heat together through proactive precautionary and quick response measures," it said.

Among the proposed measures is the provision of "heat breaks", particularly for outdoor workers, during the hottest hours of the day – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m; to have a "buddy system", for workers be able to check on each other's well-being; to have "hydration reminders" to be done regularly by reminding workers to drink adequate water even before they feel thirsty.

"We call for social dialogues among workers and employers, through the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Committee in every workplace, to prioritize measures that will be part and parcel of their Heat Risk Action Plan," the TUCP added.

The TUCP also pushed for "heat stress orientation sessions" to educate workers about identifying heat stress symptoms and appropriate responses and to have better ventilation in workplaces, such as opening the windows and adding electric fans, especially in manufacturing and industrial settings.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has been cautioning the public to take precautionary measures as heat index levels top 40 degrees Celsius in various areas.

The scorching heat has already forced many schools to suspend face-to-face classes and resort to alternative learning schemes.

Meanwhile, the city government of Manila on Friday called on school heads to avoid holding outdoor activities that would expose students to extreme heat.

Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna noted the advice from health experts stating the peak hours and harmful effects of prolonged exposure to the scorching heat of the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The mayor also urged school authorities to ensure that their classrooms have good or proper ventilation and that the students are properly hydrated. (PNA)