Organizational Structure

What is Organizational Structure?

According to Will Kenton; an organizational structure outlines how activities are directed
to achieve organizational goals, encompassing rules and responsibilities. It influences the flow
of information, with centralized and decentralized structures determining decision-making
processes. This framework enables companies to maintain efficiency and focus. (Kenton, W.)

According to Gunnela Westlander in the ILO Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety,
here are some basic organizational structure.

Over time, various ideas and principles about organizational management have emerged, each
attempting to introduce something innovative. However, despite these changes, the prevalent
organizational structure still tends to emphasize hierarchy order and the division of
responsibilities. This structure typically outlines key elements of vertical integration and
functional responsibility or authorization.

Figure 1. The classical original organizational form

The concept of vertical influence is most apparent

in its basic, classical form, where an organization
consists of one superior and several subordinates,
allowing direct control. The evolved classical
structure illustrates how intricate organizational
setups can emerge from small hierarchical
systems. However, this extended form doesn't
inherently define the nature of horizontal
interactions among non-management positions.

Figure 2. The extended classical form

The typical organizational structure is characterized

by managerial layers arranged in a "triangular"
fashion, with a few or several layers descending
from the apex. This structure usually emphasizes a
hierarchical order based on the principle of "unity of
command," establishing a scalar chain of authority.
The degree of strictness in its application depends
on the chosen organizational structure.

Figure 3. The flat organization

a flat organizational structure with fewer

management layers, indicates a
preference for deemphasizing the
supervisor-subordinate relationship. In a
flat organizational structure, vertical
influence norms are loosely defined in a basic organizational chart, requiring additional
instructions and detailed job guidance for managers. Hierarchical structures function as a
normative control mechanism, offering minimal liability to organization members. The flatter
structure encourages increased horizontal interaction, becoming imperative for operational
effectiveness.

Organizational Structure of OSHC in the Philippines

Office of the Executive Director-

The role of the Office of the Executive Director is to implement the policies and programs
established by the OSHC Board. This involves strategic planning, direction, coordination, and
control of both administrative and technical operations within the OSHC. Additionally, the office
is responsible for overseeing research and studies across all facets of OSH administration and
policy.

Furthermore, the Office of the Executive Director plays a pivotal role in planning, preparing, and
supervising the execution of the agency's annual work program. This involves collaboration with
various divisions within the Center to ensure the effective implementation of initiatives.

In addition, the office serves as a crucial intermediary, fostering connections between the
Department of Labor and Employment and other governmental, non-governmental, as well as
local and international organizations. This multifaceted role highlights the Office of the Executive
Director as a central hub for facilitating communication and collaboration across different entities
involved in occupational safety and health.

Safety Control Division-

The primary objective of the Safety Control Division (SCD) is the enhancement of workplaces.
In pursuit of this goal, the SCD engages in comprehensive activities such as studies, research
endeavors, and field investigations. These initiatives are geared towards the prevention of work-
related accidents, the enhancement of overall safety conditions within workplaces, and the
development of safety devices and equipment. Additionally, the SCD plays a crucial role in the
evaluation and testing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other safety devices.

Moreover, the SCD is responsible for the formulation of technical guidelines and testing
procedures, particularly concerning the performance assessment of various industrial
machinery. This meticulous approach ensures that industrial equipment meets established
safety standards.

As part of its role, the SCD extends its expertise by providing technical assistance to policy-
making authorities. This involves actively participating in the development and application of
safety rules, regulations, and standards. By contributing to policy formulation, the SCD plays a
pivotal role in fostering a safer and healthier working environment.

Health Control Division-

The primary emphasis of the Health Control Division lies in proactively preventing work-related
illnesses and diseases. In pursuit of this objective, the division actively engages in
comprehensive research, studies, and consultations, fostering close collaboration with sectoral
organizations, agencies, and individuals. These collaborative efforts aim to address and mitigate
health-related concerns in the workplace, ensuring a holistic approach to the well-being of
workers. Through its activities, the Health Control Division strives to develop effective strategies,
guidelines, and interventions to safeguard workers from occupational health hazards, promoting
a healthier and safer work environment.

Environment Control Division-

The central focus of the Environment Control Division (ECD) is the eradication of hazards within
the work environment and mitigating their associated effects. This involves conducting both
fundamental and applied research aimed at identifying and understanding the presence of
harmful environmental contaminants. The ECD is dedicated to assessing the work environment
comprehensively by conducting measurements to gauge the levels of exposure to various
chemicals, including solvents, heavy metals, and toxic gases. Additionally, the division assesses
the impact of physical agents such as noise, heat, vibration, and illumination on workers.

A critical aspect of the ECD's responsibilities is the evaluation of existing ventilation systems
within workplaces. Based on these evaluations, the division provides recommendations for
control measures to eliminate or minimize identified hazards. Through these systematic
approaches, the Environment Control Division actively contributes to creating safer and
healthier work environments by addressing and managing diverse environmental factors that
could pose risks to the well-being of workers.

Training and Public Information Division-

The primary objective of the Training and Public Information Division is to enhance awareness,
proficiency, and attitudes regarding Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) matters among
workers, employers, and the broader public. The division takes a proactive role in organizing,
planning, and delivering a variety of courses catering to different audiences.

For medical personnel, supervisors, and workers across private and government sectors, the
division conducts basic, advanced, and specialized courses. Examples of these courses
include, but are not limited to:

 Basic Occupational Safety and Health Course

 Construction Safety Course
 Working Environment Measurement Course
 Pneumoconiosis Course
 Voluntary Protection Program (VPP)
 Fire Safety Course
 Press Machine Safety Course

These initiatives are designed to equip individuals with the requisite knowledge and skills to
foster a culture of safety, not only in their respective workplaces but also in the broader
community. By offering a diverse array of courses, the Training and Public Information Division
plays a pivotal role in promoting a comprehensive understanding of occupational safety and
health practices.

Financial and Administrative Division-

The Finance and Administrative Division is responsible for overseeing various aspects of the
general administration within the Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC). Its purview
includes managing financial matters, addressing manpower needs, and overseeing general
services essential for the seamless operation of the Center.

Financial Oversight:

The division manages and oversees financial aspects, ensuring proper allocation and utilization
of resources in accordance with the center's operational requirements.

Manpower Management:

In terms of manpower, the division addresses staffing requirements, ensuring the appropriate
deployment and management of personnel to support the center's mission and functions.

General Services Coordination:

The division also plays a vital role in coordinating general services necessary for the smooth
functioning of the OSHC. This includes overseeing logistical and operational support to meet the
center's needs.

By efficiently handling these critical areas, the Finance and Administrative Division contributes
to the overall effectiveness and efficiency of the OSHC, ensuring that it can fulfill its mandate in
promoting and safeguarding occupational safety and health.