Effectiveness of safety management in controlling occupational accidents in transformer manufacturing industry in Sri Lanka: management perspective

Abstract

Effective management of occupational health and safety (OSH) is vital in every industry. It enhances the favorable motives for the accomplishment of goals in a particular industry. The effectiveness of safety management procedures for controlling occupational accidents in manufacturing industry has been acquired increased attention over the recent times. It can be understood that it is crucial to avoid occupational accidents caused by poor management and awareness related to OSH practices in Sri Lankan context. As a result of mitigating accidents, desired productivity can be achieved. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the effectiveness of occupational safety and health management systems in accident prevention at Transformer Manufacturing Industry (TMI) in Sri Lanka. In the literature synthesis of the study, possible hazards and injuries have been discussed with their risk and security levels. Questionnaire survey was used to collect primary data and further company accident data were referred in data collection process. The most common accident identified are slips and trips, cut and laceration, being caught in or stuck by moving machinery, and overexertion injuries. Since the implementation of the occupational safety and health management system in the work environment became safer and there was a decline in the number of lost time accidents recorded each year thereafter according to TMC accident primary data. High risk accident has been identified as an eye injuries and electrocution injuries. The existing occupational health and safety management system at transformer manufacturing company met the majority of the requirements comprehensive safety management systems. Furthermore, is implementation of accident control actions and the occupational safety and health management system are align with international standards always improved the occupational safety and health performance generated positive results in health and safety sector. With the proper involvement of management practices in monitoring and controlling occupational accidents, higher productivity can be assured with lesser negative consequences in transformer manufacturing industry. Moreover it is understood that, mitigating occupational accidents assures the availability of potential skilled workers in the manufacturing industry which benefits the country’s economy as well as social wellbeing.