Occupational Safety and Health Hazards in Work Places: A Case Study of Sugar Corporation of Uganda Limited

Abstract

This study sought to assess the occupational health and safety hazards within different workplaces and a case study of SCOUL. The study aimed at identifying occupational hazards and evaluate the risks associated with different workers in the industry, identifying risk management strategies to OHS and assessing the level to which OHS procedures are being implemented. Fifty workers were selected from different sections within the factory. Interviews were carried out with the use of questionnaires whereby leaders (supervisors and personnel) who had experience and knowledge about the topic were selected, which helped in obtaining primary data. The study shows that 4.0% reported biological hazards, 90.0% reported physical hazards, 58.0 reported chemical hazards, 16.0% suggested mechanical hazards,4.0% suggested psychosocial hazards and 22.0% reported ergonomics. Further analysis also shows that physical hazards had the highest percentage that is most reported type of hazards. The results also indicated the different strategies by the management. There is high prevalence of hazards and risks within working environments. This research recommends all the employers to improve on OHS by attaining knowledge, attitude and skills in order to ensure safety of their workers. The factory admins were recommended to change the designs of some PPEs, improve hygiene facilities medical and first aid facilities which will provide comfort and ensure good health of the workers.