Industrial safety convention slated in Cebu in November

About 500 to 1,000 participants are expected to attend the 39th National Industrial Safety Convention this coming November 8, 9 to 10 (2006) to be held in Cebu.

The convention which is organized by the Safety Organization of the Philippines Inc. (SOFI), a non profit, non-political, non-sectarian and professional organization, chose to hold the national conference in Cebu, because of its booming economy, and increasing number of industrial and commercial establishments that need effective safety measures.

SOFI interim head for Cebu Antonio Tompar said the convention will carry its theme, "Progress & Development through Safety, Health and Environment Protection Practices". The congress aims to bring together experts on industry safety issues.

To be held in Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casinos, a month prior to the 12th ASEAN Summit, Tompar said the holding of the congress would also signal the efforts of industrial establishments in the Philippines for safety campaign to minimize losses in human lives and property.

Industries like that of construction firms, heavy industries, manufacturing, hotels, shipping companies, among others are the primary target sectors that are urged to participate in the congress.

In his letter, SOFI chairman for industry safety division, Larry Andres B. Seril, he said that the three-day interaction during the Congress is expected to generate workable ideas which can be translated into action plan by both government and private sector participants to further propel the Philippines continuing economic progress.

The safety campaign to minimize losses in human lives and property, through the Congress, will be undertaken in cooperation with government agencies like Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and others, which are tasked with the promotion of safety and health.

Currently, Tompar said the safety in the Philippine industries is not quite very good, compared to those in other countries. This issue, among others will be tackled during the Congress.

He said SOFI will link with the security and safety officers, as well as human resource departments of firms to support with the campaign.

"Everybody respects safety. This involves life," Tompar said adding that companies may have their own safety measures to protect their human resources, but it has to be well implemented.

On Saturday, September 23, SOFI will formally launch the event in Cebu at the City Sport Club Cebu.