Lawmaker urges LGUs to protect workers exposed to extreme heat

MANILA – Senator Mark Villar on Tuesday highlighted the need for local government units (LGUs) to implement preventive measures to protect workers from excessive heat amid heat-induced accidents and deaths among construction workers and traffic enforcers.

"I am urging our LGUs to look into how they could provide additional aid to our construction workers and enforcers to minimize their exposure to the heat," Villar said in a statement.

The lawmaker issued the statement after the Department of Health reported 77 heat-related illnesses and seven deaths since January due to the abnormally high heat index.

Villar cited in particular the need for adjustments in working hours, work attire, and rotational shifts to minimize workers' exposure to the sun.

He also urged the increased presence of local medical personnel around areas of high foot traffic during the peak periods of heat.

"As much as possible, gusto po nating ma-minimize ang effect ng mataas na temperature sa ating mga manggagawa (we want to minimize the effect of high temperature on our workers), and at the same time, be ready for the worst case," Villar said.

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned of a high heat index of between 42℃ to 45℃ in 37 areas of the country on Tuesday. (PNA)