If you’re planning to work in the Philippines, you should be aware of the country’s workplace safety laws.
Although the Philippines has a relatively low number of workplace accidents compared to other countries, there are still some rules and regulations that you must follow to ensure your safety while on the job.
3 Laws Regarding Workplace Safety
Workplace safety is an important concern in the Philippines. As a result, the government has enacted several laws to protect workers from harm.
Here’s a look at some of the most critical laws about workplace safety in the Philippines.
1. The Occupational Safety and Health Standards
The Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS) is the primary law governing workplace safety in the Philippines. The OSHS sets out a comprehensive list of safety standards that employers must comply with.
These standards cover everything from electrical to fire safety and are designed to protect workers from a wide range of hazards.
One of the most critical aspects of the OSHS is the requirement for employers to conduct a risk assessment of their workplace. This assessment must identify all potential hazards and assess the risks posed by each one.
Based on the risk assessment results, employers must implement appropriate control measures to mitigate the risks.
The OSHS also requires employers to provide their workers with safety training. This training must cover the employer’s safety procedures and the workers’ rights and responsibilities under the law.
2. The Hazardous Substances and Processes Decree
The Hazardous Substances and Processes Decree (HSPD) is a law that sets out specific requirements for the safe handling of hazardous substances. The HSPD covers many substances, including chemicals, pesticides, and radioactive materials.
Under the HSPD, employers must ensure that their workers are protected from exposure to hazardous substances. This includes providing them with personal protective equipment (PPE) and training them on handling and using substances safely.
The HSPD also requires employers to establish and maintain a register of all hazardous substances used in their workplace. This register must be made available to workers to be aware of the hazards they may be exposed to.
3. The Factory Inspectorate Decree
The Factory Inspectorate Decree (FID) is a law that requires factories to be inspected by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The purpose of these inspections is to ensure that factories are complying with the OSHS and HSPD.
During an inspection, the DOLE will assess the factory’s compliance with the safety requirements of the two laws. If the DOLE finds that the factory is not compliant, it can issue a notice of violation. The factory will then have a specific time to rectify the situation.
Bottom Line
Workplace safety is a critical issue in the Philippines. While the government has been working to improve workplace safety, they must continue to hold employers accountable and inform employees of their rights.
Workplace accidents are preventable if everyone takes their responsibility seriously. By following the law and implementing best practices, we can create a safe work environment for all employees in the Philippines.
For more information on compliance, visit Global People Strategist.
