DOLE urges flexible work options, limits on outdoor work as poor air quality threatens worker health

The Philippines’ Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has called on private-sector employers to take proactive measures to protect workers when poor air quality poses health risks.

Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino signed Labor Advisory No. 15, Series of 2026, on 18 September, setting out measures to safeguard workers from environmental air pollution. The advisory was issued in line with the government’s focus on worker health, safety and welfare.

Under the advisory, employers are required to carry out Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Control (HIRAC) procedures to assess workers’ exposure to poor air quality. 

The assessments should be guided by the Air Quality Index Matrix and Action Points (AQIMAP) issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Department of Health.

Employers are also expected to periodically review and update their HIRAC assessments when there are significant changes in air quality, workplace conditions, employee exposure or other factors affecting risk levels.

When air quality reaches a very unhealthy level, employers should closely monitor air quality advisories, provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), improve indoor airflow and ventilation, and limit or suspend outdoor work where necessary.

The advisory also calls for workers to be informed about the health risks associated with air pollution and the precautions they should take.

If air quality becomes acutely unhealthy, employers should consider flexible work arrangements. At emergency air quality levels, the advisory strongly recommends suspending non-essential work or adopting alternative work arrangements to protect employees.

DOLE said both employers and workers have a role in implementing the measures, stressing that the guidelines are intended to protect the health, safety and welfare of the working community.