DOLE trains micro-entrepreneurs as workplace safety officers in Surigao Sur
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
Tandag City (PIA) — More than 220 workers and enterprise representatives from across Surigao del Sur are now better equipped to safeguard their workplaces after completing the Safety Officer Training spearheaded by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) – Surigao del Sur.
The initiative, conducted in two batches, August 4 in Tandag City with 141 participants from Carrascal, Cantilan, Madrid, Carmen, Lanuza, Cortes, Tago, San Miguel, and Tandag City, and August 12 in Lianga with 84 workers from Cagwait, Marihatag, San Agustin, Lianga, Barobo, Tagbina, and Bislig City. It was designed to address compliance gaps noted during DOLE’s Technical Assistance Visits (TAVs). Many micro-establishments were previously found to lack designated and trained safety officers, a key requirement under the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Law or Republic Act 11058.
Through a mix of lectures, workshops, and hands-on sessions facilitated by DOLE labor inspectors, participants gained knowledge and skills in:
– Hazard
Identification, Risk Assessment, and Control (HIRAC);
–
Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) communication and coordination;
–
Promoting healthy and productive work environments;
– Developing customized safety programs suited to their establishments.
By the end of the training, participants expressed optimism that their new capacity as safety officers would help prevent accidents, strengthen compliance, and foster a culture of accountability.
“Dakong tabang ang pag-conduct og safety officer training kay tungod ani, mas nakabalo mi unsaon pagsulbad ang mga posible nga aksidente sa trabahoan, (The conduct of this safety officer training is a big help because we now know how to address possible workplace accidents),” one participant from Lianga said, highlighting how the training offered practical solutions to everyday workplace risks.
DOLE-Surigao del Sur Chief Genebelle Bal emphasized that this effort forms part of the agency’s sustained mission to ensure that even small businesses operate responsibly while protecting their workers.
“Every safe workplace means healthier, more productive workers and thriving businesses. By empowering micro-enterprises with trained safety officers, we are building a culture of safety that benefits both employers and employees,” she stressed.
With the successful completion of these trainings, Surigao del Sur takes a stronger step toward realizing safer, fairer, and more resilient workplaces, contributing not only to worker protection but also to the long-term growth of local enterprises. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)
