Abstract
Background
Occupational health and safety hazards are significant public health concerns. This problem is afflicting many developing countries, particularly healthcare workers, and Namibia is no exception.
Study aim
The purpose of this study was to determine the status of occupational health and safety compliance at Omaruru District Hospital by determining if an active safety management committee with duly appointed representatives existed.
Method
Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, the study investigated the level and status of occupational health and safety compliance among health care workers at Omaruru District State Hospital in Namibia. The study sampled 150 health care workers, who were sampled using a simple random sampling technique. A questionnaire was used as a tool for data collection, together with a walk- through audit checklist.
Results
The occupational health and safety compliance status of health care workers at Omaruru district state hospital Namibia was discovered to be relatively good, with a star rating of 2 (67% score). Also, most participants indicated that they underwent induction when they joined the healthcare sector, attended a health and safety class, and were vaccinated against hepatitis B.They were also provided with personal protective equipment when needed and were fully satisfied with the equipment they were provided. However, it was discovered that they are not aware that the hospital has a health and safety committee in place and departmental health and safety representatives; they have not had a general check-up since they started working as a health care worker; and they are not aware of the OH&S policies, guidelines, and regulations in place.
Conclusion
Health care workers at Omaruru District State Hospital in Namibia have a two-star occupational health and safety compliance status, and the safety regulations and policies are current, valid, implemented, and followed. Operational health managers should have safety and health rules from the Ministry of Health and Social Services. These aid Namibian healthcare workers in their work and well-being and before being given command of specific units.