Philippines: Health and safety

Original and updating authors: Marianne M. Miguel and Easter Princess U. Castro-Ty, SyCip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan

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Summary

• Workers are entitled to humane conditions of work, and employers must comply with binding Occupational Safety and Health Standards that aim to eliminate or reduce hazards and ensure safe and healthful working conditions in all places of employment. (See General)
• Employers must provide their employees with a place of employment free from hazardous conditions, and have numerous health and safety duties. Employees also have various obligations in this area. (See Duties on employers and employees)
• Employers must organise an occupational health and safety committee in every workplace. The committee is the policy-making and implementing body for all matters pertaining to health and safety. (See Safety representatives)
• The Department of Labor and Employment is responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with health and safety legislation, and has various inspection and enforcement powers. (See Enforcement and penalties)
• The Social Security System, which covers private-sector employees, includes an employer-funded Employees' Compensation Programme that provides benefits in the event of occupational injuries and illnesses. (See Compensation for occupational injury or illness)