An Analysis of Factors Contributing to High Occupational Accident Prevalence Rate at Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission Distribution Company (ZETDC) Northern Region, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe
Abstract
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.
Country : Zimbabwe
1 Ivainashe Musabayana2 Tafadzwa Mandizvidza3 Dr. Chipo Mutongi4 Dr. Smartson. P. Nyoni5 Thabani Nyoni
Midlands State University, Zimbabwe Open University, Zimbabwe
Midlands State University, Zimbabwe Open University, Zimbabwe
Midlands State University, Zimbabwe Open University, Zimbabwe
ZICHIRe Project, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
