MMDA reinstates ‘heat stroke breaks’

MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has reinstated “heat stroke breaks” for its field personnel.

Acting MMDA Chairman Romando Artes signed a memorandum circular reinstating the policy, first implemented last year, to protect field employees – particularly traffic enforcers and street sweepers – from suffering from heat exhaustion, heat stroke and heat cramps, the MMDA said in a statement yesterday.

The “heat stroke breaks” will be implemented from April 1 to May 31.

Traffic enforcers and street sweepers can take turns leaving their posts for their “heat stroke break” for 30 minutes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., depending on their schedule.

For traffic enforcers who work from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m., the prescribed 30-minute break is at 10 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. while those on the 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. shift can take a break at 2:30 p.m. or 3 p.m.

For those working from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., the break can be at 11 a.m. or 11:30 a.m. Personnel on the 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. shift may take a break at 3 p.m. or 3:30 p.m.

Street sweepers on the 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. shift can take a break at 11 a.m. or 11:30 a.m. For those working from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., the break will be at noon to 1 p.m., including regular break time. Sweepers on the 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. shift may take a break at 2:30 p.m. or 3 p.m.

Artes said 15 minutes may be added to the break if the heat index reaches 40 degrees Celsius.

“This move is part of the agency’s efforts to prevent heat-related illness among our outdoor workers who brave the searing heat every day to fulfill their duties and responsibilities. Their safety is of paramount importance,” he explained.

Experts have warned the public to avoid any outdoor activity from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., when the daytime heat is more intense.