An Analysis of Factors Contributing to High Occupational Accident Prevalence Rate at Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission Distribution Company (ZETDC) Northern Region, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe

Workers are unaware of potential hazards present in their working environment which let them more vulnerable to injury. The study revealed that ZETDC management system is not effective in reducing unsafe practices by employees. 85% of the total population is not observed and monitored by management during overtime operations. Ninety one percent (91%) of the respondents indicated that they do their operations in harsh weather conditions   The Chi –square test produced (p>0.0716) showing no significant difference of alcohol by accident involvement. Furthermore, the study revealed the causes of accidents as unsafe workplace practices like horseplay at work, inexperienced labour force, working while on cellphones, limited risk assessment before working, working under the influence of alcohol, improper use of machines, improper wear of personal protective equipment and safety and health ignorance. The study recommends that top management should be responsible for safety and health of employees through effective monitoring. Notably, supervisors need to observe and monitor employees whilst they do their operations. Furthermore, there is need to involve employees in safety and health trainings in areas such as hazard identification and control. Additionally, ZETDC should carry out periodic job task assessment and audits to identify areas for continual improvement in safety management.