Challenges associated with the implementation of occupational safety and health management systems in manufacturing industry of Mutare, Zimbabwe

Objective: This study examines challenges of implementing the Occupational Safety and Health Management System (OSHMS) in the manufacturing industry of Mutare, Zimbabwe as well as to develop a framework to circumvent the identified challenges. Methods: Utilizing a descriptive mixed-method design, data was collected through questionnaires, interviews, and observations, alongside secondary sources like company OSH records. Primary and secondary data was analyzed and discussed continuously in a descriptive prose. Chi-square test at 5% significance level was applied to test inferential statistics and the test results were described qualitatively to compliment other data sources. Results: Key findings identified inadequate resources, lack of leadership and commitment, insufficient employee involvement, and a shortage of qualified OSH practitioners as major obstacles. The study reveals that causes of these challenges are multifactorial, necessitating comprehensive interventions. A lack of a preventive safety culture emerged as a critical underlying factor affecting OSHMSs implementation. Conclusion: In alignment with Article 14 of ILO Convention 155, the research advocates for a national strategy to foster a preventive OSH culture, integrating OSH into all education and training levels. Additionally, it recommends that the Government of Zimbabwe ratify ILO Convention 187 to support the establishment of a national OSH qualifications framework, enhancing OSH management at both national and workplace levels. This study originality is its ability to develop a problem driven framework of interventions ideal for solving OSH implementation challenges and their causal factors in the manufacturing industry of Mutare through experiential learning, coordination, and a collaborative approach. The study is of global significance as it has an impact of providing opportunities for sustainable OSH transformation in the manufacturing industry of Mutare and beyond

Business · Environmental health · Occupational safety and health · Pathology · Business Strategies and Management Research · Medicine · Occupational Health and Safety Management · Occupational Health and Safety Research

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