The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) urgently calls for immediate heat breaks, a buddy system, and mandatory heat stress orientation session as the heat index in the country soars to life-threatening levels. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecasted ‘danger’ heat index of up to 46 degrees Celsius while the Department of Health (DOH) warned about risk of heat-related illnesses ranging from heat cramps and exhaustion to potentially fatal heat stroke.
“As temperatures continue to spike across Metro Manila and nearby provinces, no worker should suffer heat exhaustion, collapse from dehydration, or, worst, die on the job due to preventable heat stress. Protecting workers from extreme heat is not optional but a shared moral and legal obligation of labor, employers, Government, and all stakeholders,” stated TUCP President and House Deputy Speaker Raymond Democrito C. Mendoza.
The TUCP strongly demands the full implementation of DOLE Labor Advisory No. 8, Series of 2023, which mandates all employers to conduct heat-related health risk assessments, improve workplace ventilation, provide sufficient drinking water, adjust work-rest cycles, and implement education campaigns on heat stress prevention. To avert preventable illnesses and fatalities, the TUCP urges all workplaces to immediately adopt and enforce the following critical non-negotiable measures:
- HEAT BREAK, especially for outdoor workers, during the hottest part of the day, such as around 11 AM to 2 PM, which can be facilitated through flexible work time arrangements.
- BUDDY SYSTEM as a proactive monitoring system for workers to check on each other’s well-being, supported by the openness and alertness of the Management and especially the workplace safety officer.
- MANDATORY HEAT STRESS ORIENTATION SESSIONS, supplemented by periodic refresher courses or training guides, to educate workers about hydration reminders, how to flag heat stress symptoms, and the corresponding treatment.
“These measures are not just recommendations—these are life-or-death necessities. Heat breaks, a buddy system, and heat stress orientations are not a burden but a win-win investment in worker safety and productivity. We demand immediate action before more lives are lost!” urged Mendoza.
