Volunteers: Free Safety Training Just Got Extended

Imagine this: You’re volunteering at a local charity in Malta, helping out at their busy warehouse in Marsa. Suddenly, a heavy box slips from a shelf. It’s a scary moment, but thankfully, you know exactly what to do. Why? Because you’ve received free health and safety training, courtesy of the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA).

Extended Lifeline for Volunteers

The OHSA has just extended its free health and safety training programme for voluntary organisations until the end of 2023. This means more volunteers like you can get certified in crucial safety skills, all at no cost to the organisations.

This extension is a lifeline for Malta’s vibrant voluntary sector. With over 2,500 registered voluntary organisations, the demand for such training is immense. The OHSA’s initiative ensures that volunteers are equipped with the knowledge and skills to work safely, benefiting both the volunteers and the organisations they serve.

What’s Covered in the Training?

The OHSA’s training programme covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Risk assessment and management
• Manual handling techniques
• Emergency procedures
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Fire safety and prevention

By the end of the course, volunteers will have a solid understanding of how to identify, evaluate, and control workplace hazards. They’ll also know how to respond effectively in emergency situations.

How to Sign Up

Voluntary organisations interested in enrolling their volunteers in the OHSA’s training programme can do so by contacting the OHSA directly. The authority will then arrange for the training to be delivered at a time and location convenient for the organisation.

For those volunteering with organisations that haven’t yet signed up, now’s the time to suggest they do. After all, safety should always be a top priority.

As Malta’s voluntary sector continues to grow and thrive, so too does the need for strong health and safety measures. With the OHSA’s extended training programme, volunteers can now look forward to a safer, more secure future.

“This extension is a testament to our commitment to ensuring the safety of Malta’s volunteers,” said OHSA CEO, Abigail Mamo. “We encourage all voluntary organisations to take advantage of this opportunity.”

So, whether you’re volunteering at a charity shop in Sliema, a community centre in Żabbar, or a cultural organisation in Valletta, make sure you’re safe while you’re making a difference.