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Sleeping quarters
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Posted on Nov 17 2006
[B]Q: Can an employer allow a government inspector to check a worker’s barracks without an advance notice?
A:[/B] Yes. According to the CNMI Alien Labor Rules and Regulations, employers shall provide access to the site of worker housing at reasonable times, with or without advance notice, for periodic inspections by government inspectors, to ensure compliance with the regulations.
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[B]
Q: How big should an alien worker’s barracks be?
A:[/B] Each room for sleeping purposes should contain at least 50 square feet of floor space for each occupant. At least a 7-foot ceiling should be provided.
Separate bedding, which may include bunks, should be provided for each occupant. Spacing of single bedding should not be closer than 36 inches both side-to-side and end-to-end. Elevation of single bedding should be at least 12 inches from the floor. Where workers cook, live, and sleep in a single room, a minimum of 100 square feet per person should be provided.
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[B]Q: When should an employer provide cooking facilities in the barracks?A:[/B] Cooking facilities are to be provided wherever workers are given common living quarters. Cooking facilities should be in an enclosed and screened shelter. Refrigeration facilities should also be provided for storage of perishable food. Facilities should be adequate for ensuring sanitary maintenance of eating and cooking utensils.
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