THE Department of Labor and Employment-Bureau of Working Conditions (DOLE-BWC) on Monday, July 21, reminded business establishments that they may suspend work during weather disturbances and similar occurrences, to ensure the safety and health of employees.
In a social media post, the DOLE-BWC said suspension of work is stated in Labor Advisory No. 17 Series of 2022, ‘Suspension of Work in the Private Sector by Reason of Weather Disturbances and Similar Occurrences.’
“Employers in the private sector may, in the exercise of management prerogative and in coordination with the safety and health committee, or safety officer, or any other responsible company officer, suspend work to ensure the safety and health of their employees during weather disturbances and similar occurrences,” it said.
At the same time, it also reminded companies about the payment of wages for employees who will or will not report to work.
“If unworked: Employee is not entitled to regular pay, except when there is a favorable company policy, practice, or collective bargaining agreement granting payment of wages on the said day or when the employee is allowed to utilize his/her accrued leave credits,” the advisory said.
It added: “If worked: Employee is entitled to full regular pay provided that he/she has rendered work for not less than six (6) hours.
If less than six hours of work, the employee shall only be entitled to proportionate amount of regular pay, without prejudice to existing company policy or practice more beneficial to the employee,” the DOLE said.
It noted that employees have no liability in case of failure or refusal to work.
“Employees who fail or refuse to work by reason of imminent danger resulting from weather disturbances and similar occurrences shall not be subject to any administrative sanction,” the DOLE added. (PNA)
