By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Mark Villar urged the concerned agencies to look into the situation of construction workers as there have been heat-induced accidents and deaths, particularly these workers.
Villar said that the government must take immediate action on such issues.
“Nakakabahala na po ang heat index natin ngayon dahil talagang marami na ang naapektuhan. We received reports of accidents and deaths caused by the extreme heat. Kailangan na po nating aksyunan ito at magkaroon ng preventive measures na mababawasan ang exposure sa init ng ating mga manggagawa,” Villar said.
According to the Department of Health, they have recorded 77 heat-related illnesses and 7 heat-related deaths since January.
The senator said these cases should serve as a wake-up call to have “appropriate adjustments and consideration” for the said workers.
“Noong nakaraang linggo ay mayroon po na mga traffic enforcers and construction workers na pumanaw dahil sa kanilang over-exposure sa araw. Ang mga kaso po nila ay isang wake-up call para sa ating lahat para magkaroon ng mga appropriate adjustments and consideration para sa kanila,” Villar said.
He urges local government units to look into adjustments on working hours, work attire, and rotational shifts of workers.
The lawmaker is also urging the increased presence of local medical personnel around areas of high foot traffic during the peak of the heat.
“As much as possible, gusto po nating ma-minimize ang effect ng mataas na temperature sa ating mga manggagawa and at the same time, be ready for the worst case. 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 emphasized.
(el Amigo/MNM)
