Private sector employers may suspend work during typhoons, heavy rains, and other weather disturbances, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said Wednesday.

In Labor Advisory 14 issued on Aug. 19, the department noted that companies have the discretion to suspend operations to ensure the safety and health of their workers during heavy downpours.

DOLE also issued guidelines on workers’ pay during intense thunderstorms.

Employees who report for work on such days are entitled to receive full pay for at least six hours of work.

“To alleviate the plight of employees during weather disturbances and similar occurrences, employers may provide extra incentives or benefits to employees who reported to work on the said days,” it said.

Those who did not work will not receive regular pay, “unless there is a more favorable company policy, practice, Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), or use of accrued leave credits.”

Employees who worked for less than six hours will receive proportional pay based on actual hours worked.

The department added that workers who do not report for work or refuse to work due to imminent danger caused by inclement weather or similar occurrences “shall not be subject to administrative sanctions.” (PNA)