By Suzan Edeh, Bauchi
The Women Development Association for Self Sustenance (WODASS), with support from WaterAid has trained civil servants, partners and contractors on health and safety practices in Bauchi State.
Daily Independent reports that the objective of the training was aimed at reducing environmental hazards, boosting productivity by reducing downtime caused by accidents or illness as well as promoting sustainability of projects by fostering trust and safety culture.
Speaking on Standard health and Safety practices in WASH Project during the training that held at Yamir Hotel and Suites in Bauchi, a WaterAid Consultant, Mr Nicholas Oshojah Afeso said that Standard Health and Safety Practice is a set of established procedures, guidelines and measures designed to prevent accidents, Injuries and illnesses in the workplace during the implementation of any project.
He noted that these procedures are aimed at protecting contractors and community members affected by the activities of a project, stressing that contractors need to prioritise the health needs of members of the community when carrying out a project.
According to him, it is important for contractors handling projects to identify risks during a project design, site mobilisation, during implementation and monitoring in order to ensure compliance with safety, safeguarding and donor policies.
A representative of WaterAid, Mr Musa Bulama who spoke on the overview of the initiative, said that health and safety in the workplace are essential for protecting employees, enhancing productivity, and improving organisational performance
“The training was organised to highlight the importance of health and safety.Beyond cost savings, it boosts employee morale and helps attract and retain skilled staff. A strong safety culture also reflects an organisation’s commitment to corporate social responsibility,” he said.
In his remarks, Alhaji Samaila Tela, the Permanent Secretary of the Bauchi State Ministry of Water Resources, commended WODASS and WaterAid for their support in advancing development within the state, particularly at ensuring the health and safety practices at work place.
He urged participants to ultilize the knowledge acquired from the training properly, saying that preventing workplace accidents starts with knowledge.
This training will help us safeguard lives, improve productivity, and promote sustainable development across all sectors,” Tela said.