SME Spotlight: How a Logistics Firm Adapted Its Health Plan for Heat Safety

Heat safety isn’t optional—it’s essential. This logistics firm made it part of their benefits strategy.

In the logistics industry, heat exposure isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s a real health hazard. With temperatures climbing during the dry season, one Philippine-based logistics firm took action to protect its field staff by upgrading health coverage and establishing practical workplace policies. This SME spotlight shows how even small operational changes, paired with the right HMO support, can deliver major improvements in employee health, morale, and retention.

The Challenge: Rising Temperatures, Rising Risks

The company—operating a fleet of delivery riders across Metro Manila and nearby provinces—was experiencing an uptick in heat-related incidents, including:

• Staff reporting dizziness, migraines, and fatigue during midday deliveries

• Missed shifts or shortened routes due to extreme heat

• Increased clinic reimbursements for dehydration and minor heat exhaustion

Their basic coverage at the time did not include easy access to outpatient services or flexible heat-related care.

The Solution: Combining Policy + Coverage Enhancements

Working with Purple Cow, the company implemented a heat safety protocol and upgraded their HMO plan to include targeted support for mobile workers.

1. Shift Adjustments & Cooling Interventions

• Midday deliveries were rescheduled where possible

• Delivery hubs were equipped with shaded rest stations and electrolyte drinks

• Riders were encouraged to hydrate frequently and take breaks during long routes

2. Expanded Outpatient Coverage for Riders

• All field staff were enrolled under a modified outpatient care program

• Riders could consult with doctors online through Doctor Anywhere for early heat-related symptoms

• Claims for oral rehydration salts, electrolytes, and mild medications were easier to process via SmilePH

3. Preventive Education

• HR rolled out weekly text reminders with hydration tips and signs of heat exhaustion

• Supervisors were trained to identify early symptoms and recommend rest

The Results: Safer Workdays, Stronger Teams

Within the first 8 weeks:
✅ Sick leaves among riders due to heat-related issues dropped by 43%
✅ Delivery completion rates rose as staff felt safer and more supported
✅ Employee satisfaction scores improved in HR’s mid-season survey

Protect Your Outdoor Staff with Smarter Coverage

Join SMEs like this logistics firm in providing targeted, flexible coverage for high-heat roles—because a protected team is a productive one.