ANALYSIS OF THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH PRACTICES OF PUBLIC ORGANIZATION IN THE PHILIPPINES

Health and safety is indispensable in organization. This study analyzes the existing Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Practices of the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST). A Higher Educational Institution (HEI) in the Philippines. Survey questionnaire was based on the Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 1 s. 2020 of the Civil Service Commission, Department of Health and Department of Labor. Data collected are triangulated using field observation, documentary analysis and unstructured interview of the respondents. Results reveal that among the parameters of health practices, support facilities ranked last. Moreover, lack of personal protective gears is perceived by the respondents as the topmost source of injury in the workplace. Overall, respondents agreed that the university has existing OSH practices but they differ in their perception. Those from the rank and file most likely believe that the institution observes OSH practices compared to those in the teaching, technical, and supervisory positions as shown by the decreasing mean scores of the two groups of employees. The study recommended that strengthened adherence to policies be observed and an OSH Manual be drafted to govern the workplace setting.