Cement firm holds safety seminar for workers

CONTRACTORS, department heads, supervisors and rank-and-file employees of the Apo Cement Corp. (Cemex) and Apo Land Quarry Corp. in barangay Tinaan, Naga City, Cebu recently attended a seminar and launching of the company’s environment, health and safety (EHS) programs.

Engr. Jenevy Patalingjug of the EHS department, in her lecture, introduced the company’s aim, which is “zero-accident and environmental incident.”

She also discussed Cemex’s 14 EHS programs for 2013, which include leadership, accountability, administrative and organizational rules; risk management; regulations policies; driving safety; contractors’ management; health and control services; people training and behavior; communication, consultation and H&S promotions; document control; standard operating procedures; operational control and personal, protective equipment; emergency management; incident investigation reporting and prevention, and audits and continuous prevention.

Normandy Chan, APO Plant director, explained that attaining the company’s EHS programs, includes promoting health and wellness for its workers, as well as, adopting standards consistent with the country’s laws and regulations.

“What is important is that each of us goes home safe. We need to change our mindset. Kailangang unahan natin ang safety. This is the only way to attain operational excellence. I hope that the launching will not end here. It actually starts here. Let’s have an attitude and sense of urgency to follow the programs. Let’s have a safe day and a safe year ahead of us,” Chan said.

The event culminated with the signing of a replica of a wheel and a world where all health, safety and environmental programs where engraved.

Engr. Patalingjug said their signatures symbolize their commitment to support the company’s EHS programs.