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Author
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Sithole, Tanaka M
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Title
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Investigating the knowledge, attitudes and practices towards Occupational health and safety (OSH) issues among contracting Company workers (a case study of ORAC systems).
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Abstract
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Background: The mining industry is known for its inherent occupational hazards and risks, making occupational health and safety (OHS) a critical concern. Contracting company workers play a significant role in the mining sector. Improving workplace safety and health requires well-defined safety and health behaviors, attitudes, and commitment (Amponsah-Tawiah & Mensah). Understanding the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of contracting company workers towards OHS issues in the mining industry is essential for promoting a safe and healthy working environment. Adequate knowledge of mining-specific safety regulations, hazard identification, and risk assessment is crucial for preventing accidents and injuries. Positive attitudes towards safety, such as recognizing the importance of OHS and personal responsibility, contribute to the establishment of a safety culture. Additionally, the implementation of safe practices, such as proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), adherence to safety protocols, and participation in safety training programs, is vital for mitigating occupational risks.
Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out and data was collected using research questionnaires. 80 research questionnaires were administered amongst the participants. The questionnaire consisted of four sections namely, demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) section. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23.
Results: A total of 80 respondents participated in the study with 67.5% being male, while 32.5% were female. 27.5% of the participants were accounted for by the 16-25 age group. The remaining age groups (26-35 and 36-45) each accounted for 62.5%, 10% respectively. 58.75% were graduates (artisans) occupying most of the population. Most of the population in study was employed to the company for a between 1-5 years with a percentage of 60. 16.25%, 21.25% and 62.5% of the population represented 8 hours, more than 8 hour and less than 8 hours duration of working hours respectively. Majority of the population were single. The participant’s knowledge score was quite fair at 53.05%. The attitude score was positive at 61.91%. The highest score on assessing knowledge is 67.5% on safety talks promoting worker's safety. The lowest score is 40% for the question on team work reducing accidents. The practices score was positive at 73.4%. The highest score is on assessing the workers’ attitudes is 71.3%, in response to the question on mock drills wasting work time. Lastly, the mean score across all the practices of ORAC Systems workers survey items is 73.4%.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the ORAC Systems workers demonstrated fair knowledge, positive attitude and positive practices towards occupational and safety issues. Despite fair knowledge and good attitude and practices, the respondents showed interest in the topic and where keen on knowing more about how effective safety and health manage systems can be promoted by their input.
Recommendations. Conducting regular training sessions for all staff members. These programs should focus on creating awareness about OSH principles, safe work practices, and the importance of compliance.
Foster a positive safety culture within the company. Employees should understand that safety is everyone’s responsibility.
Encouragement reporting of hazards, near misses, and incidents without fear of reprisal. Regularly assess workplace risks and identify hazards. Implement preventive measures to mitigate risks. Involve employees in hazard identification. They are often the best source of information about potential risks in their work areas and it improves compliance.
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Date
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June 2024
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Publisher
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BUSE
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Keywords
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Occupational safety and health, Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, mining
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Supervisor
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Mr. Nyamugure
Sithole - SHEM.pdf