Investigating and evaluating the importance and success of adopting a health and safety manual within your organisation

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the importance of adopting a health and safety manual within organisations in various industries and what could be the repercussions of not adopting and implementing such a manual. These objectives were achieved through data collected from both foreign and local literature and also through a structured focus group (qualitative data) and the use of a telephone questionnaire (quantitative data). This study found that in Malta, a low level of awareness and knowledge exists amongst most of the employers and their respective employees. Nevertheless, findings gave an indication that craving for knowledge of health and safety exists amongst workers. Findings also revealed that notwithstanding the lack of training, once again there is craving for training and learning on safety issues. It was also found that the majority of organisations lack proper documentation such as risk assessments and safety manuals. This study concludes that when it comes to health and safety, there is still room for improvement in order to reach the desired level and this is felt in most existing industries. Therefore, it is important to promote a positive attitude and culture amongst all workers. It is hoped that this study will increase safety awareness in the various organisations and awareness on the importance of preparing and updating safety documents such as the safety manual. It is hoped that employers do understand that a safety manual is purposely prepared to serve as guidelines to them and their respective employees.