Question & AnswerQ&A (DOLE DEPARTMENT ORDER NO. 57-04)
The main objective is to ensure effective implementation of the Labor Standards Enforcement Framework to build a culture of voluntary compliance with labor standards by all establishments and workplaces, and to expand the reach of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) through partnerships with various stakeholders.
Compliance is ensured through a voluntary mode called Self-Assessment, where employers use a provided Checklist for assessing compliance with labor standards.
The approach for workplaces with 10 to 199 workers is Inspection, undertaken by labor inspectors to identify violations and effect restitutions or corrections.
It uses Advisory Services and Training and Advisory Visits (TAVs) to assist these small and micro establishments in complying with labor standards through education and improvement programs.
Inspections prioritize establishments with existence of complaints, imminent danger or accidents, hazardous workplaces, construction sites, and establishments employing women or child workers.
The accomplished Checklist on Compliance with Labor Standards must be submitted to the Regional Office not later than five days after the assessment.
An Evaluation Team organized in the Regional Offices of DOLE is tasked to monitor and evaluate compliance, verify documents, and recommend corrections or spot checks.
LGUs are delegated to conduct technical safety inspections pursuant to relevant Articles in the Labor Code and related administrative rules, based on recommendations by DOLE Regional Offices.
Violations are disposed of in accordance with Articles 128, 129, 162, and 165 of the Labor Code of the Philippines and its implementing rules and regulations.
The Bureau of Working Conditions must develop and issue the Manual of Labor Standards with the appropriate Checklist, the Manual on Assistance/Advisory Services, the Labor Inspection Manual, and the Manual on Technical Safety Inspection for LGUs.