XN000022-1972-06-08 — Page 4

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Thursday, June 8, 1972

CONSIDER EMPLOYEES SAFETY IN TYPHOONS

Labour Department's Advice To Employers

Although owners of factories and commercial firms are not

bound by law to follow any particular procedures during a typhoon,

they are advised to act in a common-sense way in the interests of the

safety of their employees.

This was stated by a Labour Department spokesman today who

said that during typhoon seasons in past years, many factory owners

and employees had phoned asking for information and advice.

He said: "They were told to consider the factor of safety both

in the factories and while travelling to and from work. Many ferry

and public transport systems stop running before an approaching storm

reaches its peak."

"Many firms send their workers home when signal number five

or a higher number is hoisted. Others do not insist on workers returning

to work when such a signal is hoisted or when interruption of ferry

services and public road transport services is imminent."

He added: "It would avoid confusion if firms published their

own regulations so that employees clearly know what they are expected

to do when storm warnings are issued. In a few cases, firms which have

special enérgéncy responsibilities may want their employees to report for

duty during a typhoon."

As a final advice, he said: "It is important for both management

and employees to reach an agreement on the payment of wages under various

circumstances during a typhoon."

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