16/06/2025
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has officially issued Department Order No. 252, Series of 2025, amending specific provisions of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 11058, otherwise known as the “Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Standards Law.” This new Department Order took effect on May 16, 2025, and introduces significant changes aimed at strengthening workplace compliance with OSH standards across all sectors.
Key highlights of D.O. 252-25 include the following:
Enhanced enforcement mechanisms to ensure that employers implement comprehensive OSH programs, including hazard identification, risk control, and mandatory worker participation.
Stricter and restructured penalty provisions for violations, making employers more accountable by increasing the range of fines based on the gravity and frequency of infractions.
Clarified roles and responsibilities of Safety Officers, OSH Committees, and workers to promote a more integrated and proactive approach to workplace safety.
Updated procedural requirements for reporting, inspection, and compliance monitoring, ensuring timely response to occupational risks and violations.
This amendment serves to bridge previous implementation gaps and aligns OSH regulations with global best practices, ensuring that Filipino workers are provided with a safe and healthful working environment as guaranteed by the law.
Employers, safety officers, and compliance personnel are encouraged to review and align their OSH policies and practices with the updated provisions of D.O. 252, S. 2025 to avoid penalties and promote a culture of prevention in the workplace.
