Mandate
The Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC) was established as the nationally recognized authority on safety and health research, training, information and technical expertise. The OSHC pursues in partnership with the public and private sectors the attainment of a healthy and safe working environment through responsive and sustainable OSH programs and policies. It also targets the ef
fective delivery of quality services. The OSHC aims to increase productivity through better working environment, decrease in manpower and economic lose caused by occupational accidents and diseases, and to improve welfare of workers and their families. Functions
ENVIRONMENT CONTROL DIVISION
The ECD works toward eliminating work environment hazards and risks and controlling their ill effects on workers. They conduct practical researches to determine the presence of harmful environmental contaminants that affect workersโ safety and health in enterprises, government offices, as well as in informal sector workplaces. ECD carries out work environment measurements (WEM) to evaluate level of exposure to chemicals like solvents, heavy metals, toxic gases, and physical agents like noise, heat, vibration and illumination. They also evaluate ventilation systems and recommend control measures to eliminate hazards and provide technical services through training courses on industrial ventilation, safe use of chemicals industrial hygiene, and Globally Harmonized System on OSH, chemical management, emergency preparedness and response and related industrial hygiene. SAFETY CONTROL DIVISION
The SCD conducts continuing studies, researches, safety audits and technical inspections in worksites particularly on hazardous machines, processes and operation. It undertakes practical testing on the safe use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and sets standard specifications for the production of PPE and other safety devices. The SCD also develops technical guidelines and test procedures for safety performance checks and provides technical advice to correct unsafe conditions in workplaces. HEALTH CONTROL DIVISION
The HCD undertakes scientific researches and conducts medical surveillance programs necessary for early detection of occupational diseases, medical examination and biological monitoring of workers exposed to different occupational hazards. Special examinations such as audiometry, pulmonary function testing, and analysis of heavy metals and organic solvent metabolites are routinely conducted by the HCD. They also provide training resources to the other divisions on occupational health. TRAINING AND PUBLIC INFORMATION DIVISION
As the lead training organization on workersโ safety and health, the OSHC has the TPID which plans, organizes and conducts OSH trainings for a broad range of clientele: government (including those involve in labor standards enforcement), trade unions, employer groups, offices of establishments, professionals like nurses, doctors, engineers, human resource officers, OFWs and workers from undeserved sectors. The TPID develops various training modules on OSH and training support materials. It also conducts information dissemination activities through information campaigns, press conferences and dialogues with different industry of worker groups. It develops information, education and communication materials such as posters, brochures, flyers, videos and OSH promotional materials. FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION DIVISION
The FAD provides fiscal and financial management, human resource development, procurement of supplies, and general building maintenance in support of the total operations of the Center. They support all the activities of the Centerโs technical divisions.
