DOLE orders Eton workers to undergo training

THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) ordered the staff and workers of Eton Properties to undergo occupational safety and health training, as well as general labor standards orientation, as she calls on construction companies to comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSH) and the guidelines governing occupational safety and health in the construction industry.

According to Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, DOLE Department Order (DO) 13 ensures the safety and health of construction workers.

“The implementation of measures to prevent injuries and illnesses is a must in every workplace, especially in high-risk jobs such those in the construction industry,” Baldoz said.

The Labor chief also asked workers, contractors and company owners in the industry not only to adhere to the guidelines under DO 13, but also to avail of the training made by the OSHC to prevent mishaps such as the recent tragedy in Makati City in which 10 construction workers were killed.

She stressed that Eton Properties safety officers and construction officials and construction workers will undergo a comprehensive training on labor standards and occupational safety and health which will be conducted by OSHC and Bureau of Working Condition (BWC) to prevent and avoid the recurrence of the tragic incident.

In the said DO, every construction project must have a suitable construction safety and health program duly approved by the BWC, and a full time safety officer who would oversee the program’s implementation at the project site. There must also be a safety and health committee conducting regular safety and health orientation for all workers.

All workers should also be equipped with complete personal protective equipment provided by the employer.

The OSH Standards and DO 13 were issued in 1989 and 1998, respectively.

In the meantime, Dr. Ma. Teresita Cocueco, executive director of the OSHC said that the compliance with safety and health guidelines is a must in all establishments especially those in high-risk industries.

She added that the OSHC would intensify the conduct of training and information dissemination to ensure that workers, contractors and company owners are aware of the occupational health and safety guidelines. –Jomar Canlas, Manila Times

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