DOLE calls for stricter safety measures

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Labor and Employment in Central Visayas (DOLE-7), in collaboration with the Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC), has intensified its call for stricter workplace safety measures following an alarming rise in occupational accidents, particularly electrocution and falls.

DOLE-7 regional director Roy Buenafe, during the third Occupational Medicine Week, emphasized that workplace safety officers play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with labor standards and preventing accidents that could lead to severe injuries or fatalities.

He highlighted the urgent need to enforce safety regulations, especially in the construction industry, where workplace incidents are increasing.

“Dito sa Central Visayas tumataas ‘yung aksidente on workplace that is why we would like to enforce more and advocate mo in terms of safety and health programs. Dumadami na din ang construction projects natin in the whole Central Visayas so isa yan sa tinitingnan natin,” said Buenafe.

Many of these accidents result from improper handling of electrical equipment, lack of training, and failure to implement safety protocols.

Buenafe also pointed out that many workers suffer from health conditions such as hypertension, which could contribute to workplace accidents. He urged safety officers to conduct regular health assessments to ensure that workers are physically fit for their jobs.

According to OSHC executive director Jose Maria Batino, companies frequently violate occupational safety standards, putting workers at risk.

Common violations include the absence of designated safety officers, lack of first aid responders, non-submission of Occupational Safety and Health records, and failure to register under occupational health standards.

To address these issues, DOLE has implemented technical advisory visits for micro-enterprises. These visits provide free training on safety and health measures, including first aid training, to help small businesses comply with labor standards.

DOLE-7 is particularly focused on improving safety compliance in the construction sector. Buenafe stressed that every construction project must have a health and safety program to identify and mitigate hazards before work begins. Inspectors ensure that safety protocols align with these programs to minimize risks.

A major concern in the construction industry is the widespread failure of companies to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to workers. DOLE-7 has warned firms that failure to comply with PPE requirements will lead to penalties and possible work stoppages.

Buenafe revealed that DOLE-7 is currently investigating a specific company due to a fatal workplace accident that occurred two months ago. He expressed disappointment that some safety officers fail to report accidents promptly, delaying intervention and preventive measures.

“Dapat i-report sa DOLE so that we can immediately implement measures that will prevent happening any untoward accident,” Buenafe said.

The role of safety officers is more vital than even the company president, according to Buenafe.

“If a company president fails, the loss is financial. But if a safety officer fails, lives are at stake,” he said.

Anna Sofia Victoria Fajardo, national president of the Philippine College of Occupational Medicine Inc., identified two major gaps in occupational safety: the lack of qualified personnel due to limited resources and inadequate capacity-building initiatives.

Fajardo also highlighted the importance of digitalization in occupational safety. The use of teleconsultation services allows companies to provide remote medical assessments and immediate health guidance for workers.

“We evolve to adopt and adapt to the advanced technology that will be ethically responsible for these advantages. In the end, ang gusto naman natin is a more efficient process of the services we provide for our workers,” she said.