PZC, DOH Partner on Occupational Safety for Puerto Princesa Waste Workforce
Waste collectors involved in the Project Zacchaeus (PZC) Eco-Kolek program completed a specialized Health and Safety Training session on October 27, 2025. The training was a collaborative effort with the Department of Health (DOH) - Puerto Princesa, aimed at mitigating occupational hazards inherent to solid waste management.
by Mitchell Gimena
12/9/20251 min read
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan — Waste collectors involved in the Project Zacchaeus (PZC) Eco-Kolek program completed a specialized Health and Safety Training session on October 27, 2025. The training was a collaborative effort with the Department of Health (DOH) - Puerto Princesa, aimed at mitigating occupational hazards inherent to solid waste management.
The primary objective of the session was to reinforce best practices in safety, hygiene, and wellness among the Eco-Warriors, ensuring compliance with local occupational standards.
Focus on Hazard Mitigation and Hygiene
DOH personnel led the technical segments of the training, which focused on immediate hazard identification and prevention. Key areas covered included:
PPE Compliance: Detailed instruction on the correct application, removal, and maintenance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to maximize protection against biological and physical contaminants.
Hygiene Protocols: Specific procedures for field hygiene and sanitation were reviewed to prevent the transmission of common workplace illnesses and infectious diseases.
Workplace Illnesses: Training included hazard recognition techniques, enabling Eco-Warriors to identify and mitigate risks associated with unsafe work conditions and recognize early symptoms of work-related illnesses.
Promoting Accountability and Family Safety
The session concluded with a focus on institutionalizing a safety culture. A "Valuing and Reflection" segment reinforced accountability, connecting personal safety practices to family welfare.
The group affirmation, "Kung ako ay ligtas, ligtas din ang aking pamilya," served to highlight that adherence to safety protocols is a commitment that extends beyond the workplace to protect dependents and the wider community.
The successful collaboration between PZC and the DOH reinforces the program's commitment to ensuring the long-term health and safety of the workforce, directly supporting the professionalization of the informal waste sector.
