SBMA’s mandatory workers training lauded

IBA, Zambales -- The local government here lauded the decision of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) to require local and foreign construction workers to undergo mandatory safety orientation seminar before allowing them to work inside the Hanjin Heavy Industries Corp. (HHIC).

Zambales Gov. Amor Deloso said a mitigating measure is being done to avoid deadly accidents at the shipyard where the safety of the workers is seemingly taken for granted..

“Based on SBMA records there were at least 15 serious accidents that took place in the shipyard since it started operation in 2006; how about accidents that were not officially recorded,” he asked.

“Sana noon pa nila ito sinimulan. Sana hindi na nagbuwis pa ng buhay ang ilan nating mga kababayan para lamang may makain ang kanilang mga pamilya,” he said.

The safety orientation seminar was required by SBMA in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The two agencies have both expressed deep concern over the rising number of work-related accidents at the shipyard.

“Starting September, the 120 shipyard workers and safety officers employed by both Hanjin and its subcontractors will attend the safety course to be be conducted by Occupational Safety and Health Center of DOLE,” SBMA Administrator Armand Arreza said.

He said common among the fatal accidents in the shipyard involving Filipino workers were the refusal of the victims to wear personal safety gears, such as hard hats, safety harness or line and safety shoes, because they found it uncomfortable.

SBMA has warned that Hanjin subcontractors found violating regulations on occupational health and safety and other labor requirements would be dealt accordingly.

Based on record , of the 42 companies subcontracted by Hanjin for various operations at the shipyard, 18 have been terminated, including the UT Corp. which hired Efren dela Cruz, the 15th fatality at the shipyard. Ruben A. Veloria - Journal online