CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – The Department of Trade and Industry in Region 3 (DTI-3) or Central Luzon is reminding owners of business establishments to keep their workplaces safe from the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).
DTI-3 officer-in-charge Leonila T. Baluyut said in a statement on Monday that while the government is in the process of opening up the economy by allowing the operational capacity of business establishments and activities, it is important to remain mindful of the workplace guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus, amid the increasing number of Covid-19 cases in recent days.
In a joint advisory signed by DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez and Department of Labor and Employment Secretary (DOLE) Secretary Silvestre Bello III last March 9, establishment owners were asked to reinforce their strict implementation of health protocols as provided in previously issued workplace guidelines such as DTI-DOLE Joint Administrative Order 2020-04-A, DOH Administrative Order 2020-0015 and applicable sector-specific policies.
Baluyut said among the common mandatory health and safety protocols given to businesses allowed to operate are contact tracing mechanisms for clients and guests and health declaration form for workers; thermal scanning of all personnel, clients, and suppliers; and provision of sanitizers and disinfecting solutions to everyone entering establishments.
Likewise, she said that other protocols that must be strictly implemented include a regular interval of sanitation of hands; strict enforcement of “No Face Mask and Face Shield, No Entry” policy; proper ventilation and exhaust system in the establishment; distancing of chairs, desks, and tables; queuing areas complying with at least one-meter distance; regular cleaning of high touch surfaces and proper sanitation of workplaces, trash areas and restrooms.
Baluyut also reminded owners of business establishments that there are penalty provisions for those firms which are found not implementing health and safety protocols in their respective workplaces.
These penalties are provided for by Republic Act No. 11058 or An Act Strengthening Compliance with Occupancy Safety and Health Standards and Providing Penalties for Violation Thereof and DOLE Department Order No. 198.
“The DTI and DOLE continue to conduct regular post-audit of establishments allowed to operate to check if they comply with health and safety protocols to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus,” Baluyut said. (PNA)
