b. Power Interruptions or Brownouts

Power Interruptions/Brownout

Brownouts not exceeding twenty (20) minutes shall be treated as hours worked.

Brownouts running for more than twenty (20) minutes may not be treated as hours worked provided that any of the following conditions are present:

• The employees can leave their work place or go elsewhere whether within or without the work premises; or
• The employees can use the time effectively for their own interest. (Policy Instruction No. 36, cited in Durabuilt Recapping Plant & Co. vs. NLRC, G.R. No. 76746, 1987)

The time during which an employee is inactive by reason of work interruptions beyond his control is considered working time, either if the imminence of the resumption of work requires the employee’s presence at the place of work or if the interval is too brief to be utilized effectively and gainfully in the employee’s own interest. (IRR Labor Code, Sec. 4[d], Rule 1, Book III)

Rest Periods

Weekly Rest Periods – applies to all employers whether operating for profit or not, including public utilities operated by private persons.

It is the duty of every employer, whether operating for profit or not, including public utilities operated by private persons, to provide each of his employees a rest period of not less than 24 consecutive hours for every 6 normal work days. (Labor Code, Art. 91)

Business on Sundays/Holidays – All establishments and enterprises may operate or open for business on Sundays and holidays provided that the employees are given the weekly rest day and the benefits as provided.