Offices will have to observe strict health protocols while the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) and general community quarantine (GCQ) remain in effect, according to just-released Interim Guidelines on Workplace Prevention and Control of COVID-19.
Signed by Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez and Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, the guidelines—aligned with minimum health standards set by the Department of Health (DOH)—mandate workers and employers to:
- wear face mask at all times;
- observe physical distancing;
- accomplish the daily health symptoms form, and undergo temperature check for recording in the health symptoms questionnaire;
- disinfect equipment or vehicle/s entering the establishments, including facilities and such objects as doorknobs and handles, at least once every two hours;
- observe proper respiratory etiquette and disinfection protocols. Eating in communal areas are discouraged, and if not possible, the employer will ensure a one worker per table and one-meter distance per worker scheme;
- reduce or avoid meetings needing physical presence;
- discourage engagement in frequent conversation as well as prolonged face-to-face interaction with workers and clients;
- implement alternative work arrangements, such as working-hour shifts, work from home (WFH), where feasible, and on a rotation basis. No diminution in wages or benefits should occur. A work agreement detailing deliverables from employees must be instituted. If feasible, employers should provide shuttle services and/or decent accommodation on near-site locations to lessen travel and people movement. Most at risk workers and vulnerable groups, or those 60 years old or of any age with co-morbidities or pre-existing illness, such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, or with immunocompromised health status; or with high-risk pregnancy are encouraged to work from home.
A monthly reporting of illness, diseases, and injuries using the Department of Labor and Employment Work Accident/illness Report Form will have to be provided by the employer through the DOLE Regional Office, a copy of which will be furnished to the Department of Health.
If an employee has a temperature of >37.5°C, even after a 5-minute rest, or if his response in the questionnaire needs further evaluation by the clinic staff, the employee will be isolated in an area identified by the company and will not be allowed to enter the workplace premises.
Clinic staff assigned to assess workers held in the isolation area must be provided the appropriate medical grade PPEs by the establishment, including face masks, goggles/face shields, and or gloves.
Office visitors must accomplish the Visitor’s Health Checklist Form which can be accessed at https://www.facebook.com/laborandemployment/ or http://bwc.dole.gov.ph/issuances
A worker suspected of having COVID-19 must be brought to the nearest hospital.
The guidelines also mandate companies to put up a COVID-19 Hotline and Call Center for employees to report if they are symptomatic of the disease.
“Employers may test workers for COVID-19. Testing kits used and procured shall be the responsibility of the employer,” Bello said.
