HYDRATION. A Metropolitan Manila Development Authority traffic enforcer drinks water to help recuperate after an extended time under the sun on Thursday (March 7, 2024). The MMDA has announced the return of its "heat stroke break" policy to protect its field personnel from the harmful effects of exposure to the sun and heat amidst the current El Niño phenomenon. (PNA photo by Joan Bondoc)
MANILA – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Thursday announced the return of its 30-minute “heat stroke break” policy to protect traffic enforcers, street sweepers, and other field personnel from heat-related illnesses amidst the current El Niño phenomenon.
The policy will take effect from March 15 until May 31 and implemented daily on a rotation schedule.
MMDA acting chair Don Artes signed a memorandum circular reinstating the policy.
“We must understand the plight of these traffic enforcers and street sweepers who work under the scorching heat of the sun every day to fulfill their duties and responsibilities,” he said in a statement.
He clarified that the break would be done by field personnel alternately to maintain visibility, especially for traffic enforcers.
Under the policy, on-duty traffic enforcers and street sweepers are allowed to leave their posts in shifts to rehydrate and seek shelter from the sun for 30 minutes to avoid heat stroke.
Field personnel can take an additional 15-minute break time in case the heat index — also called the human discomfort index — in Metro Manila reaches 40 degrees Celsius and above. (PNA)
