A push for mandatory heat breaks for outdoor workers is gaining support from traffic authorities as soaring temperatures raise health concerns among field personnel.
Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue (TEAM) head Hyll Retuya said the proposed policy is a timely measure that would directly benefit traffic enforcers regularly exposed to extreme heat on duty.
“We appreciate kining usa ka noble legislation bahin aning heat break,” Retuya said.
He said prolonged exposure to high temperatures poses health risks, making it necessary to provide scheduled breaks or adjusted duty arrangements during peak heat hours.
Retuya clarified, however, that the policy will not remove personnel from their posts, especially in key intersections that require continuous traffic management.
“Wala na nagpasabot na mupahuway nga muuli sa ilaha ug matog,” he said.
He added that traffic enforcers will remain deployed in the field, particularly in areas without traffic lights, where manual control is essential.
To manage manpower, a buddy system is currently being implemented in some locations, allowing personnel to rotate duties while maintaining traffic flow.
City Councilor Joel Seno, who authored the resolution, proposed a 30-minute heat break for field workers, subject to implementing guidelines still being finalized.
The measure forms part of broader efforts by the City Council to protect outdoor workers from heat stress as temperatures continue to rise across the city. (VCL)
Photo courtesy of European Urban Resilience Forum
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