Safety

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Why Do We Need Signages?

Why Do We Need Signages?

Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS)

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), under Article 162 of the Labor Code of the Philippines, established the Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS) to ensure the safety and well-being of workers. OSHS aims to:

  • Protect workers from injury, sickness, or death through safe and healthful working conditions.
  • Conserve valuable manpower resources.
  • Prevent loss or damage to lives and properties.
  • Support national development goals and promote the total well-being of every worker.

Safety in the Workplace

What is a Hazard?

A hazard is anything with the potential to cause injury, illness, or damage. Hazards in the workplace are classified into four types:

  1. Physical Hazards
    • Caused by unhealthy working conditions such as:
      • Poor lighting
      • Poor ventilation
      • Insufficient facilities
      • Inefficient or faulty equipment
      • Improper work practices (e.g., incorrect use of tools like knives)
  2. Biological Hazards
    • Caused by exposure to infectious diseases due to:
      • Contact with infected workers
      • Unhygienic personal practices
      • Contaminated food or equipment
    • Example: COVID-19 probable cases should be isolated immediately.
  3. Ergonomic Hazards
    • Caused by poor posture or repetitive movements, leading to:
      • Body stress
      • Muscle pains and soreness
      • Back injuries
      • Numbness in hands, feet, or other body parts
  4. Psychological Hazards
    • Caused by excessive work-related stress, which may lead to:
      • Mental and emotional strain
      • Anxiety and depression
      • Loss of focus and productivity

What Should Employees Do When They Discover a Workplace Hazard?

  1. Ensure that everyone in the workplace is aware of the problem.
  2. Inform or notify a supervisor. If you are the supervisor, initiate a safety plan.
  3. Follow up to ensure the hazard is addressed. Simply reporting it does not guarantee resolution.
  4. Document and record the issue through proper reports and filings.

The 5S Method for Workplace Safety and Organization

Japanese Term English Equivalent Meaning
Seiri Tidiness Remove unnecessary materials from the workplace.
Seiton Orderliness Arrange everything in its proper place for easy retrieval.
Seiso Cleanliness Keep the workplace clean; everyone should contribute.
Seiketsu Standardization Maintain cleanliness through established routines.
Shitsuke Discipline Make 5S a daily habit and workplace culture.

Summary

  • Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS) ensure workplace safety under Article 162 of the Labor Code of the Philippines.
  • A hazard is anything that can cause injury, illness, or damage.
  • Types of Hazards:
    • Physical
    • Biological
    • Ergonomic
    • Psychological
  • Steps to Address Hazards: Awareness, reporting, follow-ups, and documentation.
  • The 5S Method promotes workplace organization and safety.

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