Keppel resumes operations

MANILA, Philippines - Less than a month after suspending its operations following the death of six of its workers in an accident, the Singaporean-owned ship repair facility in Zambales has resumed operations.

Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said Keppel Subic Shipyard Inc. (KSSI) has implemented the necessary corrective measures prompting the government to lift the suspension order against the company.

“After thoroughly evaluating the action plan submitted by KSSI and finding sufficient the enhanced activities in the restoration of the stern ramp, our regional office in Central Luzon lifted the suspension order,” Baldoz said.

She said Keppel also started the accreditation process of its safety practitioners, enhanced safety procedures in the restoration of the stern ramp and submitted proofs of compliance to the testing by an accredited organization.

Baldoz, during a meeting with Keppel president and general manager Mok Kim Whang and two other company officials at the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) office in Intramuros a few days ago, stressed the need for the company along with its sub-contractors to comply with health and safety standards.

The labor chief said Keppel has also undertaken efforts to provide financial and other form of assistance, such as full hospitalization of the injured and the employment of the victims’ next-of-kin, to all the families of the victims.

DOLE Region 3 director Leopoldo de Jesus in a report to Baldoz said Keppel presented its action plan entitled, “Procedure for the Restoration of the Stern Ramp.”

He said the DOLE office and Keppel also agreed to constitute a joint monitoring team from the Occupational Safety and Health Center, Bureau of Working Conditions and DOLE Regional Office 3 to check on Keppel’s compliance with its safety programs.