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DTI, DOLE call for reinforcement of health protocols in workplace

By Kris Crismundo

March 9, 2021, 6:50 pm

MANILA – Amid the threats of new coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) variants in the country, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) issued Tuesday an advisory calling for reinforcement of health protocols to prevent the spread of the virus in the workplace.
 
“As we continue to fight Covid-19 and its new variants, employers/contractors/subcontractors and business establishments are hereby reminded to reinforce their strict implementation of minimum public health and safety standards and protocols in the workplace,” the joint advisory of DTI and DOLE read.
 
The government’s minimum health protocols include wearing of face masks and shields, hand washing, disinfecting, and physical distancing.
 
Contact tracing is also required in all establishments, with a health officer monitoring that minimum health standards are strictly implemented.
 
Aside from these public health standards, DTI and DOLE have sector-specific guidelines that needed to be implemented to manage the spread of Covid-19.
 
“Willful failure or refusal to comply with any of the pertinent minimum public health and safety standards and protocols shall be penalized in accordance with Section 29 of DOLE Department Order No. 198, Series of 2018 and other applicable regulations and guidelines,” the advisory said.
 
The country breached again the 3,000 mark of daily Covid-19 cases.
 
New Covid-19 variants, such as the UK and South African variants, were also reported in the country.
 
Amid these developments, economic activities and business establishments that were allowed to reopen continue to operate.
 
DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez earlier said the economy could not afford another hard lockdown, but a granular and localized lockdown would be the key to contain the spread of Covid-19. (PNA)
 
 

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