Occupational safety and health practices in Total Uganda Limited

Abstract

This study sought to examine Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) practices in Total Uganda Limited. The objectives of the study were to: assess the level of utilization of OSH tools; analyse the level of organisational commitment towards OSH practices; and establish the factors affecting effective implementation of OSH requirements. This study adopted a descriptive research design with qualitative and quantitative research approaches. A sample size of 70 employees containing top managers, middle managers, line managers and operational/causal staff was selected using stratified random sampling technique from a population of 90. Primary data was collected using structured questionnaire and data analyzed SPSS (version 20). The study found out low level of OSH utilization. OSH tools such as first aid boxes, in-house facility, standby ambulance and emergency eye and body rooms were lacking. The study also found irregularities in inspection and periodic maintainace. However, organisational commitment towards OSH was prevalent. Management conducted orientation of new staffs, allocated a specific budget towards OSH and supplied worning notices across the company premises. The study also observed that Total Uganda is equipped with a OSH manual and that endeavors to identify new health and safety hazards at work were on. The factors influencing OSH implementation were diverse. The study found that the major OSH implementation factors were employee commitment, monitoring and control, financial resources availability, level of training and employee participation The researcher recommends the adoption of OSH as one of the core value, continuous employee training, recognition and appreciation of employees, refurbishment of all Total Uganda gas stations, formation of rules and regulations regarding the utilization of OSH well as conducting OSH utilization survey to identify specific reasons for the low utilization of OSH and solutions thereof.