IOHSAD commemorates April 28

The Institute for Occupational Health and Safety Development (IOHSAD) commemorated Workers' Memorial Day last April 28, 2009 by sharing the latest research during a forum held at the Asian Social Institute in Malate, Manila. The research tackled the occupational health and safety (ohs) issues of workers and community members in and around the Dole Philippines Incorporated fruit plantation.

“We are one with all the workers of the world who are commemorating this day. There is a greater urgency in promoting and defending a safe and healthy workplace, especially during this world-wide recession,” said Emma Celada, IOHSAD Training Officer. “Workers health and safety will be sacrificed in the guise of cost-cutting measures imposed by managers and employers. Workers from developing countries like the Philippines will experience more sweatshop conditions.”

The forum discussed the research entitled Occupational and Environmental Health and Safety Realities inside the Dole Philippines Incorporated was done by IOHSAD with support from the Pesticide Action Network – Asia Pacific (PAN-AP). The research highlighted the concerns of the workers who are constantly exposed to hazardous chemicals, including endosulfan. Pesticide exposure were also raised as one of the major concern of the community inside and around the plantation.

The activity was marked with the participants lighting candles to remember those who have died due to work and also served as a reminder to continue fighting for the living.