Ensuring the safety of workers in their workplaces and to further prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease, the Department of Labor and Employment proposes the mandatory wearing of the face shield, as part of the minimum health protocols in work areas.
DOLE Secretary Silvestre Bello III said that an inter-agency task force (IATF) meeting between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Department of Health (DOH) will confirm the implementation of the said measure.
He further added that the purchase of the face shield for the employees will be shouldered by their respective employers.
Companies who will be found not complying with the workplace health protocols will face administrative sanctions.
Increasing demand for face shields
Health authorities emphasized that the use of face shield, together with a mask, reduces exposure to and emission of droplets.
The Department of Transportation likewise required all public transport passengers to wear face shield and face mask, starting August 15.
Image: Facebook/Department of Transportation-Philippines
DoTr Secretary Arturo Tugade asked the riding public not to think of such a requirement as an additional burden or expense.
“Let us remember that no amount of protection is too much when it comes to health and safety, especially that we are battling an invisible enemy,” Tugade said.
“What we are addressing is not a transport issue but rather a health issue,” he added.
Image: Facebook/Department of Transportation-Philippines
The said order is applicable to all public transportation throughout the country, including the aviation and airports, railways, road, and maritime sectors. Though he did not elaborate further on the practical benefits of wearing a face shield, Secretary Tugade said that the use of face coverings and masks for superior protection is adopted widely.
With the increasing demand, the DTI already asked the DOH to impose a standard retail price for the face shield.
DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said that they have already proposed an SRP, subject to Secretary Duque’s approval. Though she did not give an exact amount, Dr. Vergeire said that the SRP will not be higher than P50.
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