Marilou M. Saong, ChE, PhD
ABSTRACT
This study evaluated the health and safety programs implemented by the University of Baguio to establish and maintain adequate protective measures for the members of the organization, and identify shortfalls, if there were, in the effectiveness of the programs. Observational onsite survey was conducted by two certified Basic Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) officers on February 13, 2013 from 8:30 AM to 3:00PM around five identified areas in the University. The findings of the audit were evaluated in accordance with current existing legal requirements as prescribed by local/national and international standards on Occupational Health, Safety, Security and Environment. Sixteen (16) strong commendable items were noted by the OSH inspectors, with two among the 16 need to be further improved. A total of 19 findings (4 HIGH RISK, 9 MEDIUM RISK and 6 LOW RISK) have been raised. Based on the findings obtained from OSH inspectors and the documents submitted, the University was marked FAIR in terms of its health and safety programs. Thus, recommendations were formulated by the researcher which includes: 1) Students, faculty members, employees and University administrators must consider necessary measures to reduce the risks identified in this study. 2) The University must establish and implement programs in reducing workers’ exposure to different hazards and preventing occupational illness. 3) The University must appoint a Safety Officer who will be responsible in providing resources for the identification, evaluation, and control of hazardous situations; developing and issuing rules and procedures; consulting with employees and management; and providing safety training, hazardous waste disposal, and occupational safety and health exposure evaluations.
Key words: Safety, hazard, risk, occupational health and safety
| Published June 17, 2014 |
Issue UB RJ Vol. XXXVII, No. 1 2013 |
Source: UB Research Journal, Vol. XXXVII, No. 1, January – June 2013
