Labor and Safety Laws

Labor and Safety Laws

Construction is a labor-intensive industry with significant safety hazards. Understanding labor laws and safety regulations is crucial for protecting workers and ensuring legal compliance.

Key Provisions of the Labor Code

1. Minimum Wage: Employers must pay no less than the minimum wage set by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB).
2. Regular Work Hours: The normal hours of work shall not exceed 8 hours a day.
3. Overtime Pay: Work performed beyond 8 hours is entitled to an additional 25% of the regular hourly rate.
4. Night Shift Differential: Employees working between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM are entitled to a night shift differential of not less than 10% of their regular wage.
5. Service Incentive Leave: Employees with at least one year of service are entitled to 5 days of service incentive leave with pay.
6. 13th Month Pay: Mandated by PD 851, equivalent to 1/12 of the basic salary earned within a calendar year.

Occupational Safety and Health (OSH)

Republic Act No. 11058 strengthens compliance with occupational safety and health standards and provides penalties for violations.

DOLE Department Order No. 13 (Series of 1998)

This is the Guidelines Governing Occupational Safety and Health in the Construction Industry.

Social Security and Benefits

Mandatory contributions ensure workers have a safety net.

1. Social Security System (SSS): Provides protection against disability, sickness, maternity, old age, death, and other contingencies.
2. PhilHealth: The National Health Insurance Program providing health care benefits.
3. Pag-IBIG Fund: The Home Development Mutual Fund providing housing loans and savings programs.
4. Employees' Compensation Commission (ECC): Provides compensation for work-related sickness, injury, or death.