Assessment of records disaster preparedness and recovery procedures at Nakasongola District Local Government Central Registry

Abstract

.The study aimed at assessing records disaster preparedness and recovery procedures at Nakasongola District Local Government central registry. The objectives of the study were to find out the different types of records kept, to find out the disasters that affect records kept, to find out the challenges experienced in managing disasters and to find out possible solutions to challenges in managing Disasters affecting records at Nakasongola District Local Government Central Registry. There was various literature reviews on different literature related to the topic written by different authors and a research gap was identified. A sample size of four respondents was selected using purposive sampling technique and they included the senior records officer, records officer, records assistant and an office attendant. It was qualitative in nature and data was collected using the interview and observation guides. Data was analyzed and presented qualitatively. The major findings of the study were that, the records were affected by two types of disasters which are natural and man-made disasters. Natural disasters included rain water, dust, dampness and biological agents. Poor records storage and handling were the major man-made disasters affecting records in the registry. It was found out that disaster preparedness is not highly rated and less knowledge is held by the registry staff. The following were the disaster management equipment at the central registry fire extinguishers, lightning conductor, security systems and fans. Record disaster preparedness and recovery procedures were characterized by challenges like inadequate record storage equipment and space, inadequate funds, absence of disaster management plan and many others. Some solutions to the challenges as suggested by respondents included expansion of the registry, using insurance cover policies, organizing workshops for registry staff regarding records management, developing a disaster management plan among others. Recommendations to the study findings were also given like registry should formulate a disaster management plan, install fire detector, water sensing alarm and more fire extinguishers, establishing emergency escape routes and exits, increasing registry funding among others.