Contractors reminded to secure overhead cranes ahead of ‘Ruby’

A man holds on to a pole as strong winds blow brought by Typhoon Hagupit in Legazpi, Albay province, eastern Philippines on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2014. AP

MANILA, Philippines — Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson has asked private contractors to secure their overhead cranes on top of buildings under construction, particularly those in areas in the path of Typhoon “Ruby” (international name Hagupit).

In an advisory over the weekend, the Department of Public Works and Highways head made the call to avert any untoward incidents in job sites.

“Strong winds may topple these overhead cranes, if they are not properly secured,” he said. “This may not only cause damage to the structure itself, but also pose danger to the people living near the construction sites.”

Singson also reminded contractors handling projects to strictly observe safety measures, citing the Department of Labor and Employment Order No. 13 (Series of 1998), otherwise known as the “Guidelines Governing Occupational Safety and Health in the Construction Industry.”

Contractors “should always ensure the protection and welfare of workers and the general public in the vicinity of work sites,” he said.

“Safety signs should be provided in areas where there are potential risks of falling debris,” Singson said.

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