OHSA Boosts Volunteer Safety with Extended Training
Voluntary Sector Scores Safety Boost
Imagine the bustling streets of Valletta, Malta’s capital city, where volunteers from various organisations are out in full force, helping with everything from street clean-ups to cultural events. Now, picture these dedicated individuals equipped with crucial health and safety knowledge, thanks to the Occupational Health and Safety Authority’s (OHSA) extended free training programme.
OHSA’s Lifeline for Voluntary Organisations
The OHSA, in its ongoing commitment to ensure the well-being of Malta’s workforce, has extended its free health and safety training programme for voluntary organisations until the end of 2023. This initiative, launched in 2021, aims to empower volunteers with the necessary skills to identify and mitigate potential hazards in their respective volunteering environments.
Malta’s voluntary sector, with its over 10,000 registered organisations, plays a pivotal role in our society. From environmental conservation to social welfare, these organisations contribute significantly to our island’s cultural fabric and community development. However, volunteers often operate in environments with unique safety challenges, making this OHSA initiative a timely and welcome intervention.
What’s Covered in the Training?
The OHSA’s training programme, delivered by certified trainers, covers a broad spectrum of health and safety topics tailored to the volunteering sector. Some key areas include:
- Risk assessment and management
- First aid and emergency procedures
- Manual handling techniques
- Fire safety and prevention
- Mental health and well-being in the volunteering context
Hands-on workshops and practical exercises are integrated into the training, ensuring volunteers leave with practical skills they can immediately apply in their volunteering roles.
How to Register and Get Involved
Voluntary organisations interested in registering their volunteers for the free training can do so through the OHSA’s official website (OHSA Malta). The registration process is straightforward, and organisations can choose from a list of available training dates and venues across Malta and Gozo.
In addition to the extended training programme, the OHSA also provides free online resources and guidance documents tailored to the voluntary sector. These resources can be accessed via the OHSA’s website, offering organisations and volunteers an added layer of support.
Malta’s voluntary sector is the backbone of our community, and initiatives like the OHSA’s free health and safety training programme are a testament to the government’s commitment to supporting and empowering this vital sector. So, if you’re a volunteer or part of a voluntary organisation, don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your skills and ensure the safety of both yourself and those around you.
As we navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, let’s continue to foster a culture of safety and well-being within Malta’s vibrant voluntary sector.
