Revised IRR of OSH Law signed

April 28, 2025, during the celebration of the World Day on Safety and Health at Work with the theme, "Revolutionizing safety and health: The role of AI and digitalization at work," Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) signed the revised implementing rules and regulations of Republic Act No. 11058, otherwise known as the "Act Strengthening Compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Standards and Providing Penalties for Violations Thereof," marks a significant development in promoting safer and healthier workplaces in the Philippines. This landmark step signifies the government’s continued commitment to protecting Filipino workers from occupational hazards and ensuring that labor rights are upheld across all industries.

RA 11058, signed into law in 2018, was a pioneering piece of legislation aimed at strengthening occupational safety and health (OSH) standards. It provided a framework for enforcing compliance among employers, including penalties for violations of safety protocols and practices. However, with the dynamic nature of workplaces and the evolving challenges of modern labor conditions—including pandemics, digital transformations, and climate-related risks—the law’s implementing rules required timely updates to remain relevant and responsive.

The revised IRR addresses this need by clarifying ambiguities, streamlining processes, and incorporating new standards based on current global best practices. Among the key improvements are clearer guidelines for hazard identification and risk assessment, more robust provisions for worker training and involvement, and expanded enforcement mechanisms for labor inspectors. These changes empower both employers and workers to take a proactive role in promoting workplace safety.

One of the most promising aspects of the revised IRR is its emphasis on preventive measures. Rather than reacting to accidents after they happen, the revised rules encourage the implementation of systems and protocols that minimize the risk of incidents occurring in the first place. This preventive approach aligns with the principle that safe work environments are not only a legal responsibility but also a shared moral and economic imperative.

Additionally, the revised IRR underscores inclusivity by recognizing the need to extend OSH protections to sectors that were previously underserved, such as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), agricultural workers, and those in the informal economy. These sectors make up a significant portion of the Philippine labor force, and their inclusion ensures that safety and health are not privileges, but rights accessible to all workers.

The DOLE, in cooperation with stakeholders from both the labor and employer sectors, has committed to ensuring the effective implementation of these revised regulations. Through intensified education campaigns, training programs, and regular monitoring, the government aims to build a culture of safety that is deeply rooted in every workplace.

In conclusion, the signing of the Revised IRR of R.A. No. 11058 represents a decisive step toward improving occupational safety and health standards in the Philippines. By reinforcing compliance mechanisms, promoting preventive strategies, and expanding coverage to all sectors, the revised rules pave the way for a safer, healthier, and more productive workforce. Ultimately, this initiative contributes to the nation’s goal of inclusive and sustainable economic growth, where every Filipino worker can thrive in an environment that safeguards their life and dignity.