DOLE moves to curb HIV/AIDS spread in workplaces

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is looking at new measures to prevent the transmission of HIV/AIDS and other deadly diseases in workplaces.

Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said occupational safety and health professionals are meeting today in the 12th National Occupational Safety and Health Congress to address the spread of HIV/AIDS and other diseases in workplaces.

“HIV, drug abuse and sexual harassment at the workplace are seriously affecting workers’ productivity so we are urging employers to cooperate with our occupational health and safety professionals in resolving these problems,” she said.

A survey conducted among 24,457 companies employing more than 20 workers showed that only 6,368 or about 26 percent have HIV policy programs. 

DOLE said a large number of call center workers were found to be at high risk of acquiring HIV/AIDS. Early this year, the labor department announced plans to distribute condoms in workplaces to protect women workers from contracting HIV/AIDS.

A department order requiring all commercial establishments nationwide to implements programs that would prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS in their workplaces was also issued.