The Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS) says the recent occupational accidents in workplaces is cause for concern and shows how some companies in the country may not be adhering to the requirements of standards such as the Occupational Health and Safety Management System Standard (ISO 45001). ZABS Standards Development and Training Manager Belinda Kancheya says there is need for a proactive approach to acquire training in the ISO 45001 standard which once implemented, will enable companies improve their occupational health and safety performance and ultimately prevent injuries.  

“It has been a matter of concern for us to see accidents in work places which could be as a result of different factors one of which includes not being able to identify hazards through risk assessment resulting in potential exposure of employees to harm’s way. Standards play an important role in helping address challenges of such nature and therefore, our proposition is that institutions begin to inherently normalize training in Occupational Health and Safety Management system standards (ISO 45001). This particular standard is designed to help companies of all sizes and industries alike, put in place measures and systems for a safe working environment for employees.  Mrs. Kancheya said.

She said the standard once implemented by companies will help identify hazards, reduce risks and will demonstrate that steps have been taken to protect workers by eliminating ineffective practices. This in turn will contribute to continuous productivity which would otherwise be disrupted as a result of unwarranted accidents.

“So going forward, we plan to conduct sector specific sensitization meetings on this and other relevant standards that would be of benefit to enhancing safety and quality. We need to make our stakeholders aware of the fact that standards can be applied in all aspects of our lives and are key in addressing different challenges that may present themselves. Mrs. Kancheya said

The Zambia Bureau of Standards develops standards for industry to implement and provides training in management system standards which include the Occupational Health and Safety Management System (ISO 45001) under discussion. The Bureau has so far trained and certified 12 companies in this standard in sectors such as telecommunications, mining, construction and engineering.