Labor dep’t inspects 75,000 establishments

The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) on Wednesday said it surpassed its target to inspect 75,000 business establishments for their compliance with general labor standards, worksite health and safety rules, and COVID-19 pandemic regulations.

Labor Assistant Secretary Ma. Teresita Cucueco said the government labor inspectors were able to check 90,327 establishments, as of November.

The Dole is also conducting separate inspections in companies wishing to apply for the government safety seal in order to fully or partly reopen during the pandemic.

For COVID-19-related “monitoring” visits, Cucueco said labor inspectors shall be checking quarantine facilities, disinfection facilities, isolation and referral, contact tracing, COVID-19 testing.

Inspectors are also checking on compliance to “ventilation standards” that are aimed in ensuring enclosed workplaces are properly ventilated. She said companies are recommended to have their own carbon monoxide monitors. —JEROME ANING