AMID the series of workplace accidents being reported, the Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC) yesterday reminded workers that they have the right to refuse work if they see the presence of “imminent danger”.
In a televised public briefing, OSHC Executive Director Noel Binag said: “All workers have the right to refuse to work because of this situation called imminent danger.”
In turn, Binag said workers are strongly encouraged to report the presence of such danger in the workplace to their employer as well as to the government.
“They have a big role to play in reporting situations of imminent danger in the workplace so that it can be resolved and ensure that they have a safe workplace,” said Binag.
Under Republic Act No. 11058, a worker has the right of refusal to work without threat or reprisal from the employer if an imminent danger situation exists in the workplace that may result in illness, injury, or death.
It also states that workers have the right to report workplace hazards to the employer, to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and to other concerned government agencies.
Based on their regular OSH inspections, the labor official said the majority of violations it recorded involved the absence of safety officers and safety and health committees.
Binag also noted that among the most common violations are the lack of first aiders and occupational health personnel.
“Violators may be slapped with administrative fines ranging from P20,000 to P100,000 per day of non-compliance,” said Binag.
OSHC issued the reminder on the heels of the tragedy that struck the passenger elevator of Burgundy Corporate Tower in Makati City, which resulted in the death of two workers.
Based on the inspection of the DOLE – National Capital Region, no less than 15 violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS) were found in the elevator works in the said building.
