The Roles of Occupational Health and Safety Management System in Reducing Workplace Hazards in Tanzania Manufacturing Industries

Abstract

Work related injuries, damages of properties, diseases and death are increasing. They are caused by working tools, environment or human actions which are used in the production activities. In this regard, there is a need to come out with measures to address the problem, through which workplace hazards can be reduced. The current study therefore assessed the roles of occupational health and safety management system in reducing workplace hazards. Specifically, the study identified the roles of occupational health and safety management guidelines, programmes and administrations in reducing workplace hazards. A questionnaire distributed to 285 respondents was used to collect primary data from big five manufacturing companies in Dar es Salaam. While the respondents were selected both conveniently and purposefully, the manufacturing companies were selected purposefully. The data were analyzed by using Partial Least Square – Structural Equation Modeling (PLS – SEM). Tables were used to describe demographic characteristics of the respondents. The findings of this study indicate that effective use and implementation of OHS guidelines, programmes and administration are crucial in reducing workplace accidents, injuries, damages and work-related diseases. The study recommend that companies have to administer, use and implement appropriate occupational health and safety policies, guidelines and programmes so as to reduce accidents, injuries, damages of properties and work-related diseases.