DOLE-Palawan ensures construction workers' safety

Ma. Socorro Marquez, DOLE-Palawan’s Construction Safety Focal Person, said that there is a need for the enhanced implementation of the CSHP in the light of the numerous construction projects in the city and in other municipalities.

There is an existing memorandum of agreement between and among the DOLE, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Interior and Local Government, and the Professional Regulation Commission. The agreement strengthens coordination and linkages to promote the welfare of the construction workers and the growth of the construction industry.

The agreement brought about National Building Code (NBC) Circular in March 2011 requiring DOLE-approved CSHP in application for building permits in all city and municipal levels of government. The circular was issued by the NBC Development Office of the DPWH.

In support to this NBC Circular, the DOLE issued an advisory for the strict compliance of a 1998 DOLE Order which stipulates guidelines governing occupational safety and health in the construction industry.

Both circulars are still in effect.

Marquez said that the heightened implementation of the CSHP poses no objections from construction firms, project owners and sub-contractors.

Starting February 15, construction companies with existing projects in the city are required to submit, the payroll of all its laborers, prior to securing building permit.

Marquez said that by providing DOLE copy of payroll of the construction company, the department upon inspection can determine underpayment and other violation of labor laws. (TBO/VSM-PIA4B Palawan)

By Victoria Asuncion S. Mendoza