Covid-19 prevention in the workplace

Covid-19 prevention in the workplace "My cousin is a factory worker. According to him, they were still required to report for work since the company of their employer was listed in the essential services that may operate during the enhanced community quarantine. However, my cousin mentioned that their employer required them to purchase masks and face shields that they will use once they enter the company's premises. My cousin told me that he could not afford it because he is just a minimum wage earner. Are factory workers in private establishments mandated to shoulder the costs of their masks and face shields?JerryDear Jerry,To answer your question, we shall refer to Labor Advisory No. 18, Series of 2020, which states that:""Section 2. Cost. – The employer shall shoulder the cost of Covid-19 preventive and control measures such as but not limited to the following: testing, disinfection, facilities, hand sanitizers, personal protective equipment (PPEs i.e., mask) signages, proper orientation and training of workers including IEC materials on Covid-19 prevention and control. xxx No cost related or incidental to or related to Covid-19 prevention and control measures shall be charged directly or indirectly to the workers.""The advisory requires all employers in the private sector to shoulder the cost of Covid-19 prevention and control measures. Thus, the employer of your cousin cannot require his or her employees to buy their own personal protective equipment (PPEs) like masks and face shields. The use of the word ""shall"" in the last paragraph underscores its mandatory character, making it imperative for employers in the private sector not to burden their employees with costs related to prevention and control of Covid-19. We hope that we were able to answer your queries. This advice is based solely on the facts you have narrated and our appreciation of the same. Our opinion may vary when other facts are changed or elaborated.Editor's note: Dear PAO is a daily column of the Public Attorney's Office. Questions for Chief Acosta may be sent to dearpao@manilatimes.net " - https://www.affordablecebu.com/