By Karren Jay G. Asgar
Prim C. Vergara III (right) poses for a photo with Dr. Florentino P. Alerta II (second from right), who is also seen taking a selfie with fellow safety officers during their field training at Panay Energy Development Corporation in Ingore, Lapaz.
Two members of Central Philippine University have recently qualified as Industrial Hygienists, marking the first time in the institution’s history. They successfully completed a 24-hour Work Environment Measurement Training held at Go Hotels Iloilo from October 8 to 10, 2024.
Prim C. Vergara III, CPU-Occupational Safety and Health Officer 4, and Dr. Florentino P. Alerta II, a Safety Practitioner and Consultant for Region VI and Chairperson of the OSH Committee of the University, completed the training conducted by the Environment Control Division of the Occupational Safety and Health Center, under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
“During the pre-qualification, we answered a series of questions and assessments about our experiences, trainings attended, and relevant certifications. After these processes, we were allocated a slot for the training. In other words, securing a slot was not easy, as it involved a rigorous selection process,” Vergara said in an exclusive interview.
Their certification as Industrial Hygienists was granted after passing a series of examinations. With advanced courses in industrial hygiene, they are qualified to conduct work environment measurement monitoring.
“At CPU, our ability to conduct internal control and work environment measurement monitoring is a significant advantage, as highlighted by the recent ISO External Auditor as one of the Opportunities for Improvement (OFIs). This positions us to make meaningful progress in enhancing our practices,” Vergara shared.
A key challenge in this area is the necessity for new equipment accompanied by calibration certificates, which are essential for compliance.
“During the training period, we were the only representatives from academe who were qualified. Alongside us were representatives from various regions of the Philippines, representing their respective corporations, factories, and power-generating agencies,” Vergara emphasized.
Prim C. Vergara III (right) proudly holds his Certificate of Completion as an Industrial Hygienist alongside the Supervising Industrial Hygienist of the Environment Control Division.
It is worth noting, as Vergara mentioned, that this presents a significant opportunity for Central Philippine University to secure a rare slot in a nationwide training program led by the Occupational Safety and Health Center. Such an opportunity not only enhances our institution’s reputation but also equips our team with valuable skills and knowledge that can be applied to improve safety and health practices within our community.
“Soon, we will be expecting work environment measurement monitoring, as a compliance,” he added.
In summary, the recent qualification of Prim C. Vergara III and Dr. Florentino P. Alerta II as Industrial Hygienists represents a historic achievement for Central Philippine University. Their expertise will not only enhance safety practices within the university but also contribute significantly to the overall health standards in the community.