Work stoppage stays until Hanjin fully complies with DOLE order

SUBIC SHIPYARD ACCIDENT

by LBG, GMA News, May 18, 2018

The work stoppage order against Hanjin Heavy Industries won’t be lifted until the firm fully complies with the conditions set by the Labor Department for the victims of last Saturday’s Subic shipyard incident that killed one worker and three others.

Quoting sources from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Celcil Villarosa reported Friday on Dobol B sa News TV that Hanjin Heavy Industries subcontractor Binictican I-Tech Corporation must extend necessary financial assistance for the families of the victims.

Earlier, DOLE-3 regional director Ma. Zenaida Angara-Campita said that the Binictican I-Tech Corporation “failed to strictly implement and monitor safety procedures” based on initial investigation.

While the DOLE noted that the subcontractor has extended initial financial assistance to the victims and assured full cooperation, the work stoppage order will remain in effect until the subcontractor fully complies with occupational safety and health standards.

This includes submitting the required employer’s accident-illness report with attached photos of the incident, medical documents, and proof of financial assistance given to victims’ families.

DOLE identified the lone fatality as Ferdinand Leuterio, who died in the hospital two days after the incident. Those injured and undergoing treatment are Gerry Bayuta, Johnny Alegre, and Vailian Dela Cruz.

Citing a report from technical safety inspectors, Campita detailed that the concentrated weight of the workers and raw materials and equipment might have caused the tilting of the scaffolding.

The workers’ supervisor reportedly notified the inspectors that only two workers were allowed to work in the area.

Moreover, the team said the bolt of the scaffolding’s bracket was “sheared.”

Meanwhile, the DOLE said Friday that Binictican must continuously pay the salaries of the three injured workers who are still recuperating. —