Pinoy domestic helpers in HK barred from cleaning exterior windows

‘FOR SAFETY PURPOSES’

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/583860/news/pinoyabroad/pinoy-domestic-helpers-in-hk-barred-from-cleaning-exterior-windows

HONG KONG — Filipino domestic helpers here will no longer be allowed to clean the windows of the flats of their employers in high-rise buildings, according to the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO).

In his memo dated October 1, Labor Attache Jalilo dela Torre said starting October 15, all contracts for Filipino domestic helpers should include a cause banning them from cleaning the exterior of windows.

The clause in the contract should state that “for safety purposes, cleaning the exterior of windows is not part of the domestic helper’s duties.”

“Please ensure that employers read this part and understand it before they sign the contract you will submit to us for verification and authentication,” the memo said.

Dela Torre said the memo was issued to all accredited employment agencies in the city “pursuant to POLO’s mandate to protect the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers.”

The memo was issued almost two months after Filipino domestic worker Rinalyn Dulluog fell to her death while cleaning the windows of her employer’s flat on the 49th floor of a high-rise building in LOHAS Park. —KBK, GMA News