Development of an occupational safety, health and environment framework for small scale motor vehicle garages in Uganda

Abstract

The purpose of this dissertation was to develop an Occupational Safety, Health and Environment (OSHE) Framework for small scale motor vehicle garages (SSMVG) in Uganda, as it is vital not only in the automotive sector but also in other sectors such as the construction industry. This study builds upon fieldwork undertaken at twenty (20) small scale motor vehicle garages in five divisions of Kampala, and investigates the current occupational safety, health and environment practices, the causes of accidents and proposes OSHE framework for small scale motor vehicle garages. This study was conducted using the case study method in the form of descriptive research and cross section study design; primary and secondary data have been used. For the theoretical foundation and analysis, the existing literatures were investigated. To collect the primary data from small scale motor vehicle garages, questionnaires and observation methods were employed. In addition to this, an interview was conducted. The quantitative data were analyzed using different types of descriptive statistics and qualitative data was analyzed by content analysis and SPSS. The researcher found out that Occupational Safety, Health and Environment Practices in small scale motor vehicle garages are minimal; only wearing overalls and safety boots are being practiced. Hazard controls are not fully in place, Motor Vehicle Garages are not fully equipped for emergencies and also Fire extinguishers are not provided, personal protective equipment like gloves, welding shield, nose masks, eye glasses are not used by the mechanics. The major causes of accidents in small scale garages include stress, alcoholism, and lack of health and safety training among others. Most respondents agreed that Occupational Safety, Health and Environment Framework should be adopted. Finally, the study concludes that the Domino theory explained accident causation and emphasized the need for safety and its relevancy therefore, it was adapted in development of an OSHE framework for small scale motor vehicle garages in Uganda.