Construction Occupational Safety and Health (COSH) PDF

CE315: ELECTIVE (COSH) health and safety in construction needs to be CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT: front of mind in every aspect at all times. CONSTRUCTION OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH...

CE315: ELECTIVE (COSH) health and safety in construction needs to be CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT: front of mind in every aspect at all times. CONSTRUCTION OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH - Most type of accidents which can cause death or (COSH) serious injury on construction sites, but it can be avoided by implementing stringent health and INTRODUCTION TO OSH safety protocols and ensuring those protocols are Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) constantly maintained. - It is mandated by law – Encompasses the social, mental and physical well- - It preserves the lives of workers & the company being of workers, that is, the “whole person”. - It is a form of motivation – OSH practice requires the collaboration and - It create understanding participation of both employers and workers in health and safety programs. Seven Main Problems of OSH in the Philippines – Occupational health issues are often given less 1. OSH Standards & the implementing guidelines are attention than occupational safety issues because inadequate & not up-to-date. the former are generally more difficult to 2. There is a need to have training in the correct confront. However, both and health and safety interpretation of OSH Standards for the enforcing issues must be addressed in every workplace. authority as well as safety & health practitioners. – OSH should be integrated in every manufacture 3. There is weak enforcement of OSH Standards. of products, release of by-products, use of various 4. Statistics does not give reliable data, due to low equipment and ensure a non-hazardous or risk- rate of compliance, absence of strict penalties, free work environment. fragmented OSH administration. THREE MAJOR FIELDS OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND 5. There is lack of OSH facilities & lack of trained OSH HEALTH: personnel. 6. There is low priority given to OSH. 1. Occupational Safety – deals with understanding 7. Lack of education & awareness on OSH among the causes of accidents at work and ways to workers & management. prevent unsafe act and unsafe conditions in any workplace. SAFETY – is a state in which hazards and conditions 2. Occupational Health – it explains how the leading to physical, psychological or material harm are difference of hazards and risks at work may cause controlled in order to preserve the health and well- an illness and emphasizes that health programs being of individuals and the community. are essential in controlling work-related and/ or ACCIDENTS – Interrupts or disrupts the normal & occupational diseases. orderly progress of any activity & may result in injury 3. Industrial Hygiene – discusses the identification, to people and/ or damage or destruction of property evaluation, and control of physical, chemical, that result to losses. biological and ergonomic hazards. HAZARD OSH aims: – a source or situation with a potential to cause - The promotion and maintenance of the highest harm in terms of injury, ill health, damage to degree of physical, mental and social well-being property, damage to the environment or a of workers in all occupants; combination of these. - The prevention of adverse health effects of the – The hazards affecting the workplace under each working conditions major area should be detected, identified, - The placing and maintenance of workers in an controlled and, at best, prevent from occurring by occupational environment adapted to physical the safety and health officer of the company. and mental needs. - The adaptation of work to humans. RISK – a combination of the likelihood of an occurrence of a hazardous event it specified period or IMPORTANCE OF OSH in specified circumstances and the severity of injury or - The construction industry is prone to many damage to the health of people, property, hazards and potential accidents, therefore, environment or any combination of these caused by the event.  SOURCE OF HAZARDS - Deaths and injuries take a heavy toll in developing countries, where a large part of the population is Samples of Unsafe Act engaged in hazardous activities such as - Failure to warn/secure agriculture, fishing and mining. - Unauthorized operation of equipment Philippine Labor and OSH statistics - Removing/ destroying safety devices - Using defective equipment/tools – According to the latest Labor Force Survey (LFS) - Using PPE improperly of the National Statistics Office (NSO), the - Improper placement/lifting /loading Philippine labor force/ economically active - Horseplay population, which refers to persons 15 years old - Operating at improper speed and above who are employed or underemployed, total of 38.905M in October 2010. Samples of Unsafe Condition – The latest Bureau of Labor and Employment - Inadequate guards/barriers Statistics (BLES) Integrated Survey (BITS) on - Defective tools/equipment/materials cases of occupational injuries and diseases that - Congestion or restricted body movement affected private sector establishments covered - Inadequate warning systems 6,460 sample non-agricultural establishments - Fire/explosion hazards with 20 or more workers. - Poor housekeeping/disorder Contributing Factors to Occupational Accidents and - Noise/radiation exposure Injuries - Extremes of temperature/ventilation - Contributing factors to occupational accidents and injuries include machines, equipment, hand OSH SITUATION IN THE GLOBAL AND LOCAL LEVELS tools, material, buildings, structures and chemical substances. HISTORY - Training on the proper handling and correct operation of machines, use of personal protective - During the industrial revolution of 1800-1900s, equipment (PPE) precautions and careful in work the use of machines, equipment and chemicals prevent accidents and promote safety in were intensive as manufacturing processes, establishments. agriculture and train/stream engine transport were the driving force of the economy. - Statistics, at that time, showed that safety hazards, chemical exposures and injuries from manufacturing work were very high. This led to DEFINITION OF TERMS: the development of guidelines and standards to protect workers from work-related hazards and Occupational Accident – an unexpected and unplanned risks. occurrence, including acts of violence arising out of or in connection with work which results in one or more workers GLOBAL OSH FIGURES incurring a personal injury, disease or death. - The International Labour Organization (ILO) Occupational Injury – an injury which results from a work- reveal that “every 15 seconds, 160 workers have related event or single instantaneous exposure in the work a work-related accident. Every 15 seconds, a environment (occupational accident). worker dies from a work-related accident or disease. Temporary Incapacity – case where an injured person was - Everyday 6,300 people die as a result of absent from work for at least one day, excluding the day of occupational accidents or work-related disease – the accident, and more than 2.3 million deaths per year. - The human cost of this daily adversity is vast and 1. Was able to perform again the normal duties of the economic burden of poor occupational safety the job or position occupied at the time of the and health practices is estimated at 4% of global occupational accident or Gross Domestic product each year. 2. Will be able to perform the same job but his/her total absence from work is expected not to  exceed a year starting the day after the accident, 3. Workplace or 4. Regulations 3. Did not return to the same job but the reason for 5. Health changing the job is not related to his/her inability to perform the job at the time of the occupational PRINCIPLES OF NATIONAL POLICY - Nations must establish, accident. implement, and review national policies focused on preventing work-related accidents and health issues, Permanent Incapacity – case where an injured person was involving all stakeholders to maintain high standards. absent from work for at least one day, excluding the day of the accident, and ACTION AT THE NATIONAL LEVEL 1. Was never able to perform the normal duties of - Countries are mandated to enforce safety laws the job or position occupied at the time of the through inspections, penalties for violations, and occupational accident, or guidance for compliance, ensuring workplaces 2. Will be able to perform the same job but his/her meet safety standards. total absence form work is expected to exceed a - Authorities regulate workplace safety, year starting the day after the accidents. equipment, and substances, with annual reporting to track progress and protect workers Fatal Case – case where a person is fatally injured as a result reporting unsafe conditions. of occupational accident whether death occurs - Safety education must integrate into all levels of immediately after the accidents or within the same training to equip workers with skills for safe reference year as the accident. practices, promoting a culture of safety from education to professional life. Frequency Rate (FR) – refers to cases of occupational injuries with workdays lost per 1,000,000 employee-hours ACTION AT THE LEVEL OF THE UNDERTAKING - Employers of exposure. must ensure safe workplaces and emergency preparedness without burdening workers financially, encouraging a Incidence Rate (IR) – refers to cases of occupational injuries cooperative approach to safety. with workdays lost per 1,000 workers. FINAL PROVISIONS - The Convention coexists with other Severity Rate (SR) – refers to workdays lost of cases of international agreements, requiring notification upon occupational injuries resulting to temporary incapacity per ratification or withdrawal, and provisions for review and 1,000,000 employee-hours of exposure. revision ensure its ongoing relevance and effectiveness. Average Workdays Lost – refers to workdays lost for every Protocol of 2002 to the Occupational Safety and Health case of occupational injury result to temporary incapacity. Convention,1981 – is important for global workplace safety. It provides rules for recording and reporting work incidents, ensuring clear and consistent records. This helps INTERNATIONAL OSH STANDARDS BY THE identify risks and prevent injuries and illnesses. INTERNATIONAL LABOR ORGANIZATION (ILO) Key terms in the Protocol include: International Labour Standards – are legal instruments setting out basic principles and rights at work. 1. Occupational accident 2. Occupational disease They are either: 3. Dangerous occurrence - ILO Conventions (or Protocols) SYSTEMS FOR RECORDING AND NOTIFICATION - ILO Recommendations - Governments must establish systems for Occupational Safety and Health Convention 1981 (no.155) recording and reporting incidents, regularly – this law establishes a global workplace safety standard to reviewed with input from workers and protect workers from hazards and improve health. employers. - Employers are obligated to maintain secure Convention - defines important terms to ensure everyone records of accidents and diseases, ensuring understands: worker confidentiality and protection from 1. Branches of economic activity retaliation. 2. Workers NATIONAL STATISTICS - Employers must promptly notify - This requires member states to formulate, authorities about incidents, providing details on affected implement, and periodically review a coherent employees and incident specifics. national policy on OSH. - The policy should provide a framework for FINAL PROVISIONS - Countries can adopt the Protocol, improving OSH and outline clear objectives and which becomes legally binding one year after ratification, strategies. and can withdraw by notifying the International Labour Office, with changes registered with the United Nations. NATIONAL PROGRAM - Develop, implement, monitor, and review national programs on OSH aimed at eliminating or Occupational Safety and Health Recommendation 1981 controlling occupational hazards and promoting safety and (No.164) health in the workplace. - sets important rules for workplace safety for all NATIONAL SYSTEM - Establish and maintain a national workers. system of OSH, including a legislative framework, - It promotes current regulations, employer- institutional arrangements, and collaboration between worker cooperation, and best safety practices. government, employers, and workers. - The goal is to prevent accidents, reduce injuries, and boost worker well-being and productivity. It Promotional Framework for OSH Convention, 2006 (No. also includes protections for vulnerable workers, 197) - Complements the Convention No. 187 by providing ensuring safety and health as basic rights. more detailed guidance on implementing the convention's - This recommendation extends safety provisions principles. This recommendation outlines specific measures to all economic sectors and worker categories, and actions to be taken by member states to promote and including the self-employed. ensure OSH. - It defines terms broadly to cover all workplaces under employer control and emphasizes SUPPORT MECHANISMS - Recommendations for support comprehensive health conditions related to mechanisms such as training and education, awareness workplace safety and hygiene. campaigns, and research and development to enhance the effectiveness of OSH programs. TECHNICAL FIELDS OF ACTION - Key measures include eliminating hazards at their source through proper NATIONAL PROGRAM - Detailed guidelines for the workplace design, maintenance, and operation. It covers development and implementation of national OSH safe machinery use, proper material handling, hazard programs, focusing on preventive measures to reduce management, environmental controls, fire safety, personal workplace hazards and risks. protective equipment, and emergency planning. ENGAGEMENT AND COOPERATION - Emphasizes the NATIONAL LEVEL ACTION - National authorities are urged importance of engaging and involving stakeholders, to establish and update safety regulations, conduct including employers, workers, and their representatives, in research on workplace hazards, and provide training. They the development and implementation of OSH policies and should ensure safety for disabled workers through regular programs. inspections and collaboration with employer and worker Occupational Health Services Convention, 1985 (No.161) - groups. Seeks to ensure that occupational health services are ACTION AT THE UNDERTAKING LEVEL - Employers are available to all workers. This convention emphasizes the responsible for safe workplaces, machinery, and methods, provision of preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic providing training, protective equipment, and ensuring services to promote and maintain the highest degree of conditions do not cause excessive fatigue. physical, mental, and social well-being of workers. Promotional Framework for OSH Convention, 2006 (NO. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES - Defines the scope and 187) - Aims to promote a preventative safety and health objectives of occupational health services, including risk culture and to progressively achieve a safe and healthy assessment, health surveillance, and health promotion working environment. This convention calls for the activities. establishment and continuous improvement of national FUNCTIONS OF HEALTH SERVICES - Specifies the functions occupational safety and health (OSH) systems and that occupational health services should perform, such as programs. identifying and evaluating workplace hazards, monitoring NATIONAL POLICY workers' health, providing first aid and emergency care, and offering health education and counseling. ACCESS AND COVERAGE - Stipulates that occupational - They should also contribute to the rehabilitation health services should be accessible to all workers and of workers who have suffered occupational integrated into the overall health system of the country. It injuries or diseases. also emphasizes the need for cooperation between employers, workers, and health professionals. ORGANIZATION - It encourages the establishment of multidisciplinary teams to deliver occupational health Occupational Health Services Recommendation 1985 (No. services. 171) ACCESSIBILITY - It underscores that these services should - was established in 1985 by the International be easily accessible to all workers and tailored to the Labour Organization (ILO). specific health needs of different workplaces. - It was adopted during the 71st Session of the International Labour Conference, held from June COLLABORATION - Emphasizes the importance of 7 to June 27, 1985. collaboration between employers, workers, and their - This recommendation serves as a guideline for representatives in developing and implementing ILO member states to develop and implement occupational health services effective occupational health services to protect GOVERNMENT ROLE - Governments are encouraged to and promote workers' health and safety in create a legal and regulatory framework to support various industries and sectors. occupational health services, provide guidance, and ensure - is a non-binding instrument adopted by the compliance with national policies and standards. International Labour Organization (ILO) to guide member states in establishing and maintaining Protection of Worker’s Health Recommendation 1953 effective occupational health services. (No.97) - The primary goal is to protect workers' health and ensure their well-being by preventing - was established by the International Labour occupational diseases and accidents, promoting Organization (ILO) in 1953. safe and healthy working environments, and - It was adopted during the 36th Session of the providing health care and rehabilitation services. International Labour Conference, held from June - It applies to all branches of economic activity and 3 to June 25, 1953. covers all workers, including those in both formal - This recommendation aims to provide guidelines and informal sectors. for ILO member states to implement measures - It provides a framework for improving workers' that protect and promote workers' health and health and safety, contributing to overall public safety across various industries. health and economic productivity - a non-binding instrument adopted by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to guide OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES member states in ensuring the health and safety of workers. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive occupational - The primary goal is to promote the protection of health services that should: workers’ health through preventive and control – Identify and assess health risks at the workplace. measures to reduce occupational health hazards – Monitor workers' health concerning their work - it applies to all workers and aims to cover various environment. occupational risks that could affect their health. – Advise on planning and organization of work to OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES promote safety and health. – Collaborate in providing training and education on - Establishing occupational health services is occupational health and safety. encouraged, especially in hazardous industries. – Participate in the analysis of occupational - responsible for monitoring workers' health and accidents and diseases. working conditions, advising on occupational health matters, and promoting a healthy working FUNCTIONS environment. - The services should provide a range of functions, HEALTH SURVEILLANCE including surveillance of work environments and workers' health, health education, first aid, and emergency treatment.  - Workers should undergo regular medical - was established by the International Labour examinations to detect and prevent occupational Organization (ILO) in 2002. diseases. - It was adopted during the 90th Session of the - Special attention should be given to workers in International Labour Conference, which took hazardous occupations and those exposed to place from June 3 to June 20, 2002. specific health risks. - provides a comprehensive list of diseases that are recognized as occupational in origin and aims to PREVENTIVE MEASURE guide member states in the recognition, - Emphasis on preventive measures to control recording, and compensation of occupational workplace hazards, including engineering diseases. controls, safe work practices, and personal - a non-binding instrument adopted by the protective equipment. International Labour Organization (ILO) to - Employers should be responsible for maintaining provide guidance on the recognition, recording, safe working conditions and providing necessary and compensation of occupational diseases. health and safety training to workers. - aims to protect workers' health by establishing a - All appropriate measures should be taken by the comprehensive list of diseases that are employer to ensure that the general conditions occupational in origin. prevailing in places of employment are such as to - it applies to all workers and covers a wide range provide adequate protection of the health of the of occupational diseases, including those caused workers concerned, and in particular that; by exposure to chemical, physical, biological, and – measures are taken to eliminate or reduce as far as ergonomic hazards. possible noise and vibrations which constitute a List of Occupational Diseases - provides an updated list of danger to the health of workers; occupational diseases, which serves as a reference for – provision is made for the storage under safe member states. conditions of dangerous substances. The list includes diseases caused by exposure to specific WORKERS’ PARTICIPATION agents or conditions, such as: - Workers should be involved in health and safety - Occupational respiratory diseases programs and have the right to be informed - Occupational skin diseases about workplace hazards and their health - Occupational musculoskeletal disorders implications. - Occupational cancer - Collaboration between employers, workers, and - Occupational infectious and parasitic diseases health authorities is encouraged to enhance workplace health and safety. RECOGNITION AND RECORDING SPECIAL PROTECTION FOR VULNERABLE GROUPS - - Member states are encouraged to establish Additional measures should be taken to protect vulnerable procedures for the recognition and recording of groups of workers, such as young workers, pregnant occupational diseases. This involves identifying women, and workers with pre-existing health conditions. and documenting cases, maintaining accurate records, and reporting data to relevant REHABILITATION AND COMPENSATION - Workers authorities. suffering from occupational diseases or injuries should have - Employers should be required to report cases of access to rehabilitation services and compensation. occupational diseases, and workers should have GOVERNMENT ROLE the right to report their conditions without fear of retaliation. - Governments are urged to establish and enforce laws and regulations to protect workers’ health. PREVENTION AND CONTROL - emphasizes the importance - Public authorities should provide guidance, of preventive measures to reduce the incidence of supervision, and support for the implementation occupational diseases. of occupational health measures. Employers should adopt engineering controls, safe work List of Occupational Diseases Recommendation 2002 (No. practices, and personal protective equipment to minimize 194) exposure to hazardous agents. DIAGNOSIS AND COMPENSATION  - Member states are encouraged to establish It shall apply to all establishments, projects and sites and all mechanisms for the diagnosis and compensation other places where work is being undertaken in all branches of occupational diseases. of economic activity, including: - Workers suffering from occupational diseases should be entitled to compensation and - Establishments located inside special economic rehabilitation services to support their recovery zones and other investment promotion agencies and return to work. (e.g., Philippine Economic Zone Authority [PEZA], Clark Development Corporation [CDC]); GOVERNMENT ROLE - Utilities engaged in air, sea, and land transportation; - Governments should develop and enforce - Industries such as mining, fishing, construction, legislation and regulations to support the agriculture, and maritime implementation of the recommendation. This - Contractors and subcontractors including those includes establishing national lists of occupational engaged in the projects of the public sector. diseases, setting standards for workplace safety, and ensuring compliance with health and safety DEFINITION OF TERMS: regulations. - Public authorities should also promote research, Certified First – Aider – any person trained and dully education, and training programs to enhance certified to administer first aid by the Philippine Red Cross understanding and prevention of occupational (PRC) or any organization authorized by the DOLE Secretary diseases. Competency Standards – industry-determined - it aims to improve the recognition, prevention, specifications of proficiency required for effective work and management of occupational diseases, performance. thereby protecting workers' health and well- being. Covered Workplace – establishments, projects, sites and all other places where work is being undertaken wherein the Department Order No. 198 Series of 2018 number of employees, nature of operations and risk or – Implementing rules and regulations of republic act hazard involved in the business a s determined by the no. 11058 entitled “an act strengthening Secretary of Labor and Employment, require compliance compliance with occupational safety and health with the provisions of DO 198-18 standards and providing penalties for violations Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) – thereof”. Accredited Training Organizations – refer to those which – Signed in December 06, 2018 have been grated accreditation by DOLE pursuant to – Published in January 09, 2019 (Philippine Star) Department Order No. 16, s. 2001. – Effective in January 24, 2019 Employer – any person, natural or juridical, including the Declaration of Policy contractor, subcontractor, and principal employer who - The State shall ensure a safe and healthful directly or indirectly benefit from the services of the workplace for all working people by affording employee. them full protection against all hazards in their Equipment – any machine with engine or electric motor as work environment prime mover. - It shall ensure that the provisions of the Labor Code of the Philippines, all domestic laws, and General Safety and Health Inspection – an examination of internationally recognized standards on OSH are the work environment, including the location and operation being fully enforced and complied with by the of machinery other than those covered by technical safety employers, and it shall provide penalties for any audits, ventilation, and other possible sources of safety and violations thereof. health hazards. - The State shall protect every worker against injury, sickness or death through safe and High Risk Establishment – refers to a workplace wherein healthful working conditions. the presence of hazard or potential hazard within the - It shall promote strict but dynamic, inclusive, and company may affect the safety and/ or health of workers. gender sensitive measures in the formulation and Common associated with potentially high-risk activities: implementation of policies and programs related to OSH. 1. Chemical works and chemical production plants; 2. Construction Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Standards – a set of 3. Deep sea fishing; rules issued by DOLE which mandates the adoption and use 4. Explosives and pyrotechnics factories; of appropriate practices, means, methods, operation or 5. Firefighting processes, and working conditions to ensure safe and 6. Healthcare facilities; healthful employment. 7. Installation of communication accessories, towers and cables; Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – a specialized 8. LPG filing, refilling, storage and distribution; clothing or equipment designed to protect workers against 9. Mining; safety and health hazards that may cause serious workplace 10. Petrochemical works and refineries; injuries and illness. 11. Power generation, transmission and distribution in the Safety and Health Audit – a regular and critical examination energy sector; of project sites, safety programs, records, and management 12. Storage and distribution center for toxic or hazardous performance on program standards on safety and health chemicals; conducted by the safety officer. 13. Storage of fertilizers in high volume; 14. Transportation Safety and Health Committee – a body created within the 15. Water supply, sewerage, waste management, workplace tasked with the authority to plan developed and remediation activities; implement OSH policies and programs, monitor and 16. Works in which chlorine is used in bulk; and evaluate the OSH program, and inspect and investigate all 17. Activities closely similar to those enumerated above aspects of the work pertaining to safety and health of and other activities as determined by DOLE in workers. accordance with existing issuances in the classification of establishments. Safety and Health Program – a set of detailed rules to govern company policies, processes and practices in all Imminent Danger – a situation caused by a condition or economic activities to conform with OSH standards. practice in any place of employment that could reasonably be expected to lead to death or serious physical harm. Safety Officer – any employee or officer of the company trained by DOLE of DOLE Accredited Training Organization Low Risk Establishment – a workplace where there is low and tasked by the employer to implement an OSH program. level of danger or exposure to safety and health and not likely or with probability to result in accident, harm or Safety Officer 1 (SO1) – an employee who has completed illness. the mandatory 8-hour OSH orientation course as prescribed in the OSH standards and 2-hour trainer’s trainings. Medium Risk Establishment – a workplace where there is moderate exposure to safety and health hazards and with Safety Officer 2 (SO2) – an employee who has completed probability of an accident, injury or illness. the mandatory forty 40-hour OSH training course applicable to the industry as prescribed in the OSH standards. Micro and Small Enterprise (MSEs) – establishments employing less than 10 employees and the establishment Safety Officer 3 (SO3) employing less than 100 employees, respectively, - 40-hours OSH training course applicable to the regardless of capitalization. industry Occupational Health Personnel – a qualified first-aider, - Additional 48-hours of advanced/specialized OSH nurse, dentist or physician engaged by the employer to training course provide occupational health services in the establishment, - At least 2-year experience in OSH project, site or workplace. Safety Officer 4 (SO4) Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Consultant – a - 40-hours OSH training course qualified safety officer 4 or its equivalent by DOLE to - 80-hour of advanced/specialized Occupational perform and /or render consultative services on OSH in at Safety training course least 2 fields of specialization as determined by DOLE. - Aggregate of 320-hours of OSH related training or Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Practitioner – a experience qualified safety officer 3 or its equivalent, duly certified by Safety Signage – any emergency, warning or danger DOLE to render occupational safety and health services in a signpost using the standard colors and sizes, including the defined and specific scope or core competency. standard symbols for safety instructions and warning in the - Comply with instructions to prevent accidents or workplace. imminent danger situations in the workplace - Observe prescribed steps to be taken in cases of Workplace – any site or location where workers need to be emergency present or to go to by reason of their work, and which are - Report to their immediate supervisor any work under the direct or indirect control of the employer. hazard that may be discovered in the workplace. Worker – any member of the labor force, regardless of Duties of other persons employment status. - Any other person, including the builder or Worker’s OSH Seminar – the mandatory 8-hour module contactor who visits, builds, renovates or installs conducted by the safety officer of the workplace as devices or conducts business in any prescribed by the OSH standards. establishments or workplace, shall comply with Duties of Employers the provisions of this Rules and all other regulations issued by the Secretary of Labor and - Equip a place of employment for workers free Employment. from hazardous conditions that are causing or are - Whenever 2 or more undertakings are engaged in likely to cause death, illness, or physical harm activities simultaneously in one 1 workplace, it - Provide complete job safety instructions to all the shall be the duty of all concerned to collaborate workers, including, but not limited to, those and cooperate to ensure compliance with OSH relating to familiarization with their work standards and regulations. environment - Ensure that the chemical, physical and biological Worker’s Right to Know substances and agents, and ergonomic and - The right to safety and health at work shall be psychosocial stresses under control are without guaranteed. risk to health - All workers shall be appropriately informed by the - Use only approved specific industry set of employer about all types of hazards in the standards of devices and equipment for the workplace, and provided access to training and workplace education on chemical safety and to orientation - Comply with OSHS including training, medical on data sheet of chemical safety, electrical safety, examination, and where necessary, provisions on mechanical safety, ergonomics, and other protective and safety devices such as PPE and hazards and risks. machine guards - All workers, including new hires, shall be provided - Make arrangement for workers and their training and information for all types of hazards representatives to have the time and resource to in the workplace in a language and dialect that participate in the processes of organizing, workers can understand. planning and implementation, monitoring, - A re-orientation on safety and health for workers evaluation and action for improvement of the in high risk establishments must be conducted OSH management system regularly, not less than once a quarter, and to be - Provide, where necessary, for measures conducted immediately following any changes in identifying trainings and drills, evacuation plans, the operations and production process. etc. to deal with emergencies, fires and accidents including first-aid arrangements Worker’s Right to Refuse Unsafe Work - Comply with all reportorial requirements of the OSH standards - The worker has the right of refusal to work - Register establishment to DOLE as provided without threat or reprisal from the employer if, as under the OSH standards determined by DOLE, an imminent danger situation exists. Duties of Workers - As a preventive measure, the safety officer may, following his/her own determination and without - Participate in capacity building activities on safety fear of reprisal, implement a work stoppage or and health and other OSH related topics and suspend operations in cases of imminent danger. programs; - The employer or safety officer cannot require the - Proper use of all safeguards and safety devices workers to return to work where there is a furnished for workers’ protection and that of continuing imminent danger. others  - A worker may also refuse to work until the lifting - Contractor or subcontractor, if any, must comply of the Work Stoppage Order (WSO) after with the OSH standards set by DOLE on safety and implementing the appropriate corrective use of such equipment in the different phases of measures the company or project operation. - Workers affected by the existence of an imminent - Appropriate training and certification by the danger situation may be temporarily assigned to Technical Education and Skills Development other areas within the workplace provided there Authority (TESDA), Professional Regulation is no impending issue with safety and health. Commission (PRC) or other concerned - Section 24 of this Rules shall apply during the government agency shall be a requirement for period of such WSO or suspension of operations operators before use of equipment, if applicable. due to an imminent danger situation. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH INFORMATION Worker’s Right to Report Accidents - Workers and their representatives shall have the right to report accidents, The employer, contractor or subcontractor, if any, shall dangerous occurrences, and hazards to the employer, to provide the workers in all establishments, projects and all DOLE and to other concerned competent government other places where work is being undertaken adequate and agencies. suitable information on the following: Worker’s Right to Personal Protective equipment (PPE) Workplace hazards and the risk posed on the safety and health of the workers such as chemical safety data - Every employer, contractor or subcontractor, if sheets; any, shall provide his/her workers, free of charge, PPE for any part of the body that may be exposed Control mechanisms in place that reduces or to hazards capable of causing injury or minimizes the risk of exposure to hazards and other impairment in the function of any part of the preventive strategies body through absorption, inhalation or physical Appropriate measures, including the probable location contact. of workers, for the prevention, control and protection - All PPE shall be of the appropriate type as tested against those hazards; and and approved by the DOLE based on its standards and/or other means of verification. Emergency and disaster management protocols - All PPE must be of appropriate size, weight, and including proper evacuation and shut-down type to specific workers exposed to hazards from procedures. which PPE are meant to ensure effective protection. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH PROGRAM - Failure to provide appropriate PPE in high risk - Covered workplaces shall develop and implement a activities shall give rise to the right of the worker suitable OSH program in a format prescribed by DOLE which to refuse unsafe work. shall be posted in prominent places. Safety Signage and Devices a) For establishments with less than 10 workers and low - All establishments, projects, sites and all other risk establishments with 10-50 workers. – The OSH places where work is being undertaken shall have program, which shall be duly signed by the employer, must safety signage and devices to warn the workers include at least the following: and the public of the hazards in the workplace. 1. Company commitment to comply with OSH - Safety signage and devices shall be posted in requirements; prominent positions at strategic locations in a language understandable to all, and in 2. General safety and health programs, including: accordance with the OSH standards on color of signs for safety instructions and warnings, Safety and health hazard identification, risk Globally Harmonized System (GHS) pictograms, assessment and control (HIRAC), construction safety, classification and labelling of Medical surveillance for early detection and chemicals, radiation, safety instructions and management of occupational and work-related warning signs, set by DOLE diseases, and Safety in the use of equipment First aid and emergency medical services; 3. Promotion of the following health domains: Medical surveillance for early detection and management of occupational and work-related Drug-free workplace (RA 9165), diseases, and Mental health services in the workplace (RA 11036), First aid and emergency medical services; and 3. Promotion of the following health domains: Healthy lifestyle; Drug-free workplace (RA 9165), 4. Prevention and control of the following health domains: Mental health services in the workplace (RA 11036), Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immune and Deficiency Syndrome (RA 8504), Healthy lifestyle; Tuberculosis (EO 187-03), and 4. Prevention and control of the following health domains: Hepatitis B (DOLE DA 05-2010); Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immune 5. Complete company or project details; Deficiency Syndrome (RA 8504), 6. Composition and duties of the OSH committee; Tuberculosis (EO 187-03), and 7. OSH personnel and facilities; Hepatitis B (DOLE DA 05-2010); 8. Safety and health promotion, training and education, 5. Complete company or project details; including: 6. Composition and duties of the OSH committee; Orientation of all workers on OSH, and 7. OSH personnel and facilities; Conduct of risk assessment, evaluation and control; 8. Safety and health promotion, training and education, to 9. Conduct of toolbox or safety meetings and job safety include the following: analysis, if applicable; Orientation of all workers on OSH, 10. Accident/incident/illness investigation, recording and reporting; Conduct of risk assessment, evaluation and control, 11. Provision and use of PPE; Continuous training on OSH of OSH personnel, and 12. Provision of safety signage; Work Permit System such as working at height, working at confined space, hot works, 13. Provision of workers’ welfare facilities; and other related activities; 14. Emergency and disaster preparedness and mandated drills; 9. Conduct of toolbox or safety meetings and job safety analysis; 15. Solid waste management system; and 10. Accident/incident/illness investigation, recording and 16. Control and management of hazards. reporting; b) For medium to high risk establishments with 10–50 11. Provision and use of PPE; workers and low to high risk establishments with 51 workers and above. – The OSH program, which shall be duly 12. Provision of safety signage; signed by the employer, must include at least the following: 13. Dust control and management, and regulations on 1. Company commitment to comply with OSH activities such as building of temporary structures, and requirements; lifting and operation of electrical, mechanical, communications system, and other equipment; 2. General safety and health programs, including: 14. Provision of workers’ welfare facilities; Safety and health hazard identification, risk assessment and control (HIRAC), 15. Emergency and disaster preparedness and response such as management commitment and employee plan to include the organization and creation of disaster involvement, workplace risk assessment, hazard prevention control groups, business continuity plan, and updating the and control, safety and health training and education, and hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment, as required; OSH program evaluation. 16. Solid waste management system; a) For establishments with less than 10 workers and low risk establishments with 10 - 50 workers. – A SO1 shall 17. Control and management of hazards; establish an OSH committee composed of the following: 18. Prohibited acts and penalties for violations; and Chairperson : Company owner or manager 19. Cost of implementing company OSH program. Secretary : Safety officer of the workplace The DOLE shall prescribe a format that should be Member : At least one (1) worker, preferably a union accomplished fully by the employer, contractor or member if organized subcontractor, if any, in consultation with the workers and their representatives. The safety officer of the workplace may also be the owner, manager or his/her designated representative. The OSH program shall be communicated and be made readily available to all persons in the workplace. It shall be The company owner, manager or one of the workers of the updated periodically whenever the DOLE, other regulatory company shall undertake first aid training from the or government agencies and institutions promulgate new Philippine Red Cross or any DOLE recognized organization rules, guidelines and other issuances related to workers’ safety and health. b) For medium to high risk establishments with 10-50 workers and low to high risk establishments with 51 The establishment shall ensure that the core elements workers and above. – The OSH committee of the covered of OSH program are integrated in the company OSH workplace shall be composed of the following: program such as management commitment and employee involvement, workplace risk assessment, Ex-officio chairperson : Employer or his/her representative hazard prevention and control, safety and health Secretary : Safety officer of the workplace training and education, and OSH program evaluation. Ex-officio members : Certified first-aider, OH nurse, OH The establishment shall submit a copy of the OSH dentist, and OH physician, as applicable program to the DOLE Regional, Provincial, Field or Satellite Office having jurisdiction over the workplace. Members : Safety officers representing the contractor or subcontractor, as the case may be, and representative/s of A duly signed company commitment to comply OSH workers who shall come from the union, if the workers are requirements together with the company OSH organized, or elected workers through a simple vote of program using the prescribed template shall be majority, if they are unorganized considered approved upon submission EXCEPT for Construction Safety and Health Program which shall The OSH committee shall effectively plan, develop, oversee need approval by DOLE prior to construction. and monitor the implementation of the OSH program OSH programs in the pre-approved template may be c) For 2 or more establishments housed under one building modified by DOLE as necessary based on existing laws, or complex including malls. – When two or more rules and regulations, and other issuances or upon establishments are housed under one building or complex, validation of the program during inspection. the health and safety committee organized in each workplace shall form themselves into a Joint Coordinating The company shall review and evaluate the OSH Committee to plan and implement programs and activities program at least once a year or as necessary, to ensure concerning all the establishments. that its objectives are met towards an improved safety and health performance Chairperson : Building owner or his/her representative such as the building administrator Secretary : Safety officer of the building or complex OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH COMMITTEE appointed by the Chairperson The establishment shall ensure that the core elements of OSH program are integrated in the company OSH program Members : At least two safety officers from any of the WORKERS’ WELFARE FACILITIES establishment housed under one building or complex a) Adequate supply of safe drinking water; : At least two workers’ representatives, one of which must be from a union if organized, b) Adequate sanitary and washing facilities; from any of the establishment housed under c) Suitable living accommodation for workers, as may be one building or complex. applicable such as in construction, shipping, fishing and night workers; The building administrator shall ensure that the Joint OSH committee shall submit its organizational d) Separate sanitary, washing and sleeping facilities for all gender, as may be applicable; plans and minutes to the DOLE Regional office, copy furnished the Bureau of Working Conditions. e) Lactation station except those establishments as provided for under DOLE Department Order No. 143-15; SAFETY OFFICER f) Ramps, railings and the like; and In the implementation of OSH program, safety officers shall be employed or designated with the following duties and g) Other workers’ welfare facilities as may be prescribed by responsibilities: the OSH standards and other issuances. Oversee the overall management of the OSH program All other occupational safety and health standards - All in coordination with the OSH committee; employers, contractors or subcontractors, if any, shall comply with other occupational safety and health standards Frequently monitor and inspect any health or safety as provided for in the 1978 DOLE Occupational Safety and aspect of the operation Health Standards, as amended. Assist government inspectors in the conduct of safety Employer’s Responsibility and Liability - The employer, and health inspection at any time whenever work is project owner, contractor, or subcontractor, if any, and any being performed person who manages, controls or supervises the work being undertaken shall be jointly and solidarily liable for Issue Work Stoppage Order (WSO) when necessary compliance with occupational safety and health standards based on the requirements and procedures provided including the penalties imposed for violation thereof as by the OSH standards provided for in this Rules. The safety officer shall be required to undergo the Visitorial Power of the DOLE Secretary prescribed DOLE-BOSH training orientation or course, advanced OH training courses, and/or other OSH - All matters arising from the visitorial and related training or learning as necessary in the enforcement power of the Secretary of Labor and effective performance of its duties and Employment (SecLab) or his/her duly authorized responsibilities. representatives shall be governed by the applicable rules on the administration and Safety officers engaged in micro and small enforcement of labor laws pursuant to Article 128 establishments, low to medium risk, shall be engaged of the Labor Code of the Philippines, as in safety programs including other tasks designated to renumbered, and other laws. him/her by his/her employer. - The SecLab or his/her duly authorized In the case of a contractor or subcontractor, at least 1 representatives with the appropriate inspection safety officer must be deployed at each specific area authority shall have the authority to enforce the of operations to oversee the management of the OSH mandatory OSH standards in all establishments program of its own workforce. and conduct an annual spot audit on its compliance for the same. Occupational Safety and Health Reports - All employers, - The conduct of annual spot audit must be contractors or subcontractors, if any, shall submit to DOLE attended by a safety officer and representative of all safety and health reports, and notifications such as but the management and workers of the not limited to annual medical report (AMR), OSH establishment. In the absence of the committee report, employer’s work accident/injury report establishment’s safety officer, his duly authorized (WAIR), and annual work accident/injury exposure data representative may attend in his stead. report (AEDR).  - The SecLab or his/her duly authorized - The SecLab shall, in consultation with all representatives may order stoppage of work or concerned government agencies and suspension of operations of any unit or instrumentalities, and relevant stakeholders, set department of an establishment when and enforce mandatory OSH standards to noncompliance to this Rules, OSH standards and eliminate or reduce OSH hazards depending on other applicable laws poses grave and imminent the number of employees of the establishment, danger to the safety and health of workers in the the nature of its business operations, and the risk workplace. or hazard involved. - Department Order No. 183, Series of 2017 and - The SecLab shall institute new and updated the manual on execution of judgments shall programs to ensure safe and healthy working govern the procedures in the conduct of conditions in all workplaces especially in inspection, mandatory conference, issuance of hazardous industries such as, but not limited to, order and execution thereof. mining, fishing, construction, and maritime. - No person or entity shall obstruct, impede, delay or otherwise render ineffective the orders of the Employee’s Compensation Claim Secretary of Labor and Employment or the - A worker may file claims for compensation Secretary’s duly authorized representatives benefit arising out of work-related disability or issued pursuant to the authority granted under death. Article 128 of the Labor Code of the Philippines, - Such claims shall be processed independently of and no lower court or entity shall issue temporary the finding of fault, gross negligence or bad faith or permanent injunction or restraining order or of the employer in a proceeding instituted for the otherwise assume jurisdiction over any case purpose. involving the enforcement orders. - The employer shall provide the necessary Payment of Workers During Work Stoppage Due to assistance to employees applying for claims. Imminent Danger Incentives to Employers and Workers - There shall be - as a result of the employer’s violation or fault, the established package of incentives under such rules and employer shall pay the affected workers their regulations as may be promulgated by the DOLE to qualified corresponding wages during the period of such employers and workers to recognize their efforts towards stoppage of work or suspension of operations. ensuring compliance with OSH and general labor standards - For purposes of payment of wages and any other such as OSH training packages, additional protective liabilities arising from the WSO, the employer is equipment, technical guidance, recognition awards and presumed a party at fault if the WSO was issued other similar incentives. secondary to an imminent danger situation which Prohibited Acts and Its Corresponding Penalties would imperil the lives of the workers. - Any willful failure or refusal of an employer, Delegation of Authority contractor or subcontractor to comply with the - The authority to enforce mandatory OSH following OSH standards below or with a standards may be delegated by the SecLab to a compliance order issued by the Secretary of Labor competent government authority. and Employment or his/her authorized - In pursuance of the delegation of authority, the representative shall be penalized of the competent government authority shall submit a administrative fines as follows computed on a per monthly report to the DOLE Regional Office day basis until full compliance having jurisdiction over its location, in accordance - Failure or refusal to comply with OSH standards with the provisions of the Revised Technical or compliance order shall be deemed willful when Safety Inspection Manual. done voluntarily, deliberately and intentionally. - The delegation of authority upon may be revoked - An employer, contractor or subcontractor who is any time as may be warranted by the found to have repeatedly violated the same circumstances. prohibited act shall be penalized of the corresponding fine plus an additional fine Standards Setting Power of the Secretary of Labor and equivalent to fifty percent (50%) thereof for every Employment instance of repeat violation. - If any of the following acts is present and there is non-compliance, the penalty of one hundred  thousand pesos (₱100,000.00) administrative fine and workplaces to effectively implement the shall be imposed separate and in addition to the provisions of RA 11058. daily administrative fine imposed above: - There shall be established an Inter-government 1. Repeated obstruction, delay or refusal to Coordination and Cooperation Committee provide the SecLab or any of its authorized composed of the DENR, DOE, DOT, DA, DPWH, representatives access to the covered DTI, DILG, DOH, DICT, PEZA and all other workplace or refusal to allow access to government agencies, including local government relevant records and documents necessary units, within sixty (60) days from the issuance of in determining compliance with OSH this Rules. standards - It shall regularly convene at least once per 2. Misrepresentation in relation to adherence quarter, to monitor the effective implementation to OSH; or of this Rules as well as related programs and 3. Making retaliatory measures such as projects intended to prevent and eliminate the termination of employment, refusal to pay, incidence of injury, sickness or death in all reducing wages and benefits or in any workplaces including periodic review of this Rules manner discriminates against any worker and all OSH standards. who has given information relative to the - Workers and employers representatives from the inspection being conducted. National Tripartite Industrial Peace Council shall - When the violation exposes the worker to death, be invited to the meetings and activities of the serious injury or serious illness, the imposable Inter-government Coordination and Cooperation penalty shall be one hundred thousand pesos Committee. (₱100,000.00) - There shall be developed an annual work plan and - Should there be 2 or more be non-compliances, accomplishments to be submitted to SecLab. The all penalties shall be imposed; provided that the funds for the operation of the Intergovernment total daily penalty shall not exceed one hundred Coordination and Cooperation Committee shall thousand pesos (₱ 100,000.00) be sourced from the fines collected under this - The penalties shall be computed on a per day Rules. basis until full compliance reckoned from the date - If any part, section or provision of this Rules shall of the notice of violation or service of the be held invalid or unconstitutional, the other compliance order to the employer without provisions not affected by such declaration shall prejudice to the filing of a criminal or civil case in remain in full force and effect. the regular courts, as the case may be. - Nothing in this Rules shall repeal any issuances - The RD shall, after due notice and hearing, which have more stringent measures issued by impose the appropriate administrative fines other regulatory agencies for the achievement of taking into consideration the damage or injury safe and health working conditions for workers. caused and risk involved including the severity and frequency of the OSH violations and size of Repealing Clause - All rules and regulations or other the establishment. issuances or parts thereof which are inconsistent with this - Fines collected pursuant to this Rules shall be Rules are hereby modified or repealed. utilized for the operation of OSH initiatives Effectivity - This Rules shall take effect fifteen (15) days incentivizing qualified employers and workers in after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation. recognition of their efforts towards ensuring compliance with OSH. Updated DOLE Computerized Inspection System - The HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK SecLab shall maintain an updated labor inspection system of computerized gathering and generation of real time data OSH POLICY AND SAFETY STATEMENT on compliances, monitoring of enforcement, and a system Policy - Every organization should have a clear policy for the of notification on workplace accidents and injuries. management of health and safety so that everybody Inter-Government Coordination and Cooperation associated with the organization is aware of its health and safety aims and objectives. - The DOLE shall be primarily responsible for the administration and enforcement of OSH laws, Legal Requirements - A good health and safety policy regulations and standards in all establishments involves the development, monitoring and review of the standards needed to address and reduce the risks to health - DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGERS and safety produced by the organization. (responsible for setting policy, objectives and targets) The law requires that the written health and safety policy - SUPERVISORS (responsible for checking day-to- should include the following three sections: day compliance with the policy) - A health and safety policy statement of intent - SAFETY ADVISERS (responsible for giving advice which includes the health and safety aims and during accident investigations and on compliance objectives of the organization issues) - The health and safety organization detailing the - OTHER SPECIALIST, such as an occupational people with health and safety responsibilities nurse, chemical analyst and an electrician - the health and safety arrangements in place in (responsible for giving specialist advice on terms of systems and procedures particular health and safety issues) - SAFETY REPRESENTATIVES (responsible for KEY ELEMENTS OF A HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY representing employees during consultation meetings on health and safety issues with the Policy Statement of Intent employer) - referred to as the health and safety policy - EMPLOYEES (responsible for taking reasonable statement or simply (and incorrectly) as the care of the health and safety of themselves and health and safety policy others who may be affected by their acts or - The statement should be written in clear and omissions) simple language so that it is easily - FIRE MARSHALS (responsible for the safe understandable. evacuation of the building in an emergency) - The statement should be signed and dated by the - FIRST AIDERS (responsible for administering first most senior person in the organization. (This will aid to injured persons) demonstrate management commitment to Health and Safety Adviser - is to provide specialist health and safety and give authority to the policy) information to managers in the organization and to monitor The following points should be included or considered the effectiveness of health and safety procedures. The when a health and safety policy statement is being drafted: adviser is not ‘responsible’ for health and safety or its implementation; that is the role of the line managers. - the aims should cover health and safety, welfare and relevant environmental issues Arrangements for Health and Safety - Gives details of the - the names of the Health and Safety Adviser and specific systems and procedures used to assist in the any safety representatives. implementation of the policy statement. - a commitment to the additional requirements of The following list covers the more common items normally the Management of Health and Safety at Work included in the arrangements section of the health and Regulations (risk assessment, emergency safety policy: procedures, health surveillance and employment of competent persons - employee health and safety code of practice - accident and illness reporting and investigation Health and safety performance targets are an important procedures part of the statement of intent because: - emergency procedures, first aid - they indicate that there is management - procedures for undertaking risk assessments commitment to improve health and safety - control of exposure to specific hazards (noise, performance vibration, radiation, manual handling, hazardous - they motivate the workforce with tangible goals substances etc.) resulting, perhaps, in individual or collective - machinery safety (including safe systems of work, rewards lifting and pressure equipment) - they offer evidence during the monitoring, review - electrical equipment (maintenance and testing) and audit phases of the management system - maintenance procedures - permits to work procedures This section will include the following groups together with - use of personal protective equipment their associated responsibilities: - monitoring procedures including health and safety inspections and audits  - procedures for the control and safety of  inadequate personal protective equipment contractors and visitors  unsafe and poorly maintained machinery and - provision of welfare facilities equipment - training procedures and arrangements  a lack of health and safety monitoring procedures - catering and food hygiene procedures and safety, particularly at board level. Review of Health and Safety Policy - It is important that the Responsibilities of Employers health and safety policy is monitored and reviewed on a regular basis.  the health, safety and welfare at work of employees and other workers, whether part- Several Reasons to Review the Health and Safety Policy: time, casual, temporary, homeworkers, on work experience, Government Training Schemes or on  significant organizational changes have taken site as contractors place  the health and safety of anyone who visits or uses  there have been changes in personnel the workplace  there have been changes in legislation  the health and safety of anyone who is allowed to  the monitoring of risk assessments or accident/ use the organization’s equipment incident investigations indicate that the health  the health and safety of those affected by the and safety policy is no longer totally effective work activity, for example neighbours, and the  enforcement action has been taken by the HSE or general public Local Authority.  a sufficient period of time has elapsed since the Responsibilities of Employees previous review.  to the reasonable care for the health and safety A positive promotion of health and safety performance of themselves and of other persons who may be will Achieve far more than simply prevent accidents and affected by their acts or omissions at work. This ill-health. involves the same wide group that the employer has to cover, not just the people on the next desk  support the overall development of personnel or bench  improve communication and consultation  to cooperate with employers in assisting them to throughout the organization fulfill their statutory duties  minimize financial losses due to accidents and ill-  not to interfere with deliberately or misuse health and other incidents anything provided, in accordance with health and  directly involve senior managers in all levels of safety legislation, to further health and safety at the organization work  improve supervision, particularly for young persons and those on occupational training Risk Assessment courses  improve production processes - is an essential part of the planning stage of any  improve the public image of the organization or health and safety management system. company - is a crucial process to determine the necessary measures for organizations to comply with health Some health and safety policies appear to be less than and safety legislation and reduce occupational successful. injuries and ill-health. - is to reduce all residual risks to as low a level as  minimal resources are made available for the reasonably practicable. implementation of the policy  too much emphasis on rules for employees and Hazard - refers to anything that has the potential to cause too little on management policy harm  a lack of parity with other activities of the organization (such as finance and quality control) Risk - refers to the probability or likelihood that harm will due to mistaken concerns about the costs of occur as a result of exposure to a hazard health and safety and the effect of those costs on HEALTH AND SAFETY AT WORK ACT 1974: overall performance. This attitude produces a poor health and safety culture.  Section 2: imply the need for risk assessment.  lack of senior management involvement in health  high labour turnover   Section 3: to anybody else affected by activities of severity of the outcome and then giving the risk a the employer – contractors, visitors, customers or numerical value. members of the public. - This method of risk assessment is used in situations where a malfunction could be very The following requirements are laid down in those serious. regulations: - measures the risk level by considering both the 1. The risk assessment shall be ‘suitable and likelihood of an incident and its potential severity. sufficient’ and cover both employees and non- - The greater the likelihood and severity, the higher employees affected by the employer’s the risk. undertaking every self-employed person shall - Likelihood is influenced by factors such as make a ‘suitable and sufficient’ assessment of the existing control measures, the frequency of risks to which they or those affected by the exposure to the hazard, and the type of person undertaking may be exposed; exposed. 2. Any risk assessment shall be reviewed if there is - Severity is determined by the intensity of the reason to suspect that it is no longer valid or if a hazard, like voltage or toxicity. The HSE' s HSG 65 significant change has taken place; where there guide recommends using a simple 3x3 matrix to are more than four employees, the significant assess risk levels. findings of the assessment shall be recorded and 2. QUALITATIVE RISK ASSESSMENT any specially at risk group of employees - (common form of risk assessment) it is based identified. purely on personal judgement and is normally defined as high, medium or low. The term ‘SUITABLE and SUFFICIENT’ is important since it - usually satisfactory since the definition (high, defines the limits to the risk assessment process. A suitable medium or low) is normally used to determine and sufficient risk assessment should: the time frame in which further action is to be taken. - Identify the significant risks and ignore the trivial - a qualitative risk assessment is sufficient. ones; - This approach involves making a judgment about - Identify and prioritize the measures required to whether the risk level is high, medium, or low, comply with any relevant statutory provisions; based on the likelihood of injury. - Remain appropriate to the nature of the work and - This classification helps establish a timeline for valid over a reasonable period of time. implementing corrective actions to mitigate the Regulations require a specific risk assessment to be made: risk. - Ionising Radiation Regulations Occupational or work-related ill-health - is concerned with - Control of Asbestos Regulations those illnesses or physical and mental disorders that are - The Control of Noise at Work Regulations either caused or triggered by workplace activities. - Manual Handling Operations Regulations Accident - is defined by the Health and Safety Executive as - Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) ‘any unplanned event that results in injury or ill-health of Regulations people, or damage or loss to property, plant, materials or - The Personal Protective Equipment at Work the environment or a loss of a business opportunity’. Regulations - The Confined Spaces Regulations Near Miss - is any incident that could have resulted in an - Work at Height Regulations accident. - The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order - The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations Dangerous Occurrence - Control of Lead at Work Regulations - is a ‘near miss’ which could have led to serious - Control of Substances Hazardous to Health injury or loss of life. Regulations - defined in the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and FORMS OF RISK ASSESSMENT Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (often known as RIDDOR) and are always reportab