DATEM tops safety as a priority in operations with 42 million safety hours

DATEM’s Safety Head Alan Sambajon conducts training for workers and staff to cultivate a safety culture in the workplace.

Throughout the years, DATEM has championed safety and sustainability in the workplace as it delivers projects nationwide. In time for the observance of National Disaster Resilience Month this July, DATEM has recorded a total of 42.4 million safety man-hours without lost-time incidents in its projects.  

According to DATEM Environment, Health, and Safety Head Alan Sambajon, regular training and orientations for key players, interested parties, and workers, which are based on legislation, have paved the way for this achievement.  

Adding significantly to this milestone is the celebration of the 5 million safety man-hours without lost time incident milestones of the construction of Maple at Verdant Tower and Shang Residences at Wack Wack projects. A total of nearly 900 workers in both projects were recognized with certificates for their valuable contributions.  

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) also recognized this milestone through Executive Director Teresita Cucueco of the Occupational Safety and Health Center in her message during Maple’s celebration.  

“With the occurrence of consecutive disasters and emergencies recently, we are re-adapting our safety programs to mitigate adverse impacts and ensure continued operations,” Sambajon added.  

DATEM regularly invites the Bureau of Fire Protection to conduct training and reminders to its workers to equip them on the safety precautions and actions in times of emergencies and disasters. 

In terms of building quake-proof structures, DATEM has already raised safety standards in the Philippines. One example is the use of precast walls in high-rise buildings, which are not only more resilient but can also secure a quicker turnover time.  

DATEM’s precast walls make use of concrete that takes advantage of its compressive strength, which can easily withstand forces of about 4,000 psi (pounds per square inch), allowing for better protection.  

As DATEM continuously fosters a safety culture among employees, workers, construction managers, and partners, the Safety Organization of the Philippines, Inc. Recognized these efforts at the 14th National Construction Safety Conference.