OHSA Boosts Volunteer Safety with Extended Training
Volunteers, Rejoice! OHSA Extends Free Health & Safety Training
Imagine you’re a volunteer at a local NGO in Malta, eager to make a difference but worried about the safety aspects. Now, picture the relief you’d feel knowing you’re equipped with the right skills to keep yourself and others safe. That’s exactly what the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) is making possible with their extended free health and safety training for voluntary organisations.
Why This Matters to Malta’s Volunteer Scene
Malta’s voluntary sector is thriving, with thousands of individuals dedicating their time and skills to various causes. From environmental conservation in places like Ghadira Nature Reserve to supporting the elderly at local community centres, volunteers are the backbone of many initiatives. However, with great responsibility comes the need for adequate safety measures. This is where OHSA’s initiative comes into play.
OHSA’s training programme, initially launched in 2019, has already benefited numerous volunteers. With the extension, more organisations can now access this vital service, ensuring that safety is not an afterthought but a priority.
What’s Covered in the Training?
The free training covers a broad range of topics, including:
- Risk assessment and management
- First aid and emergency procedures
- Fire safety and prevention
- Manual handling techniques
- Health and safety in the workplace (including virtual settings)
By the end of the course, volunteers will have a solid understanding of how to identify, evaluate, and mitigate potential hazards, making their volunteering experience safer and more enjoyable.
How to Register and What’s Next
Interested organisations can register for the training through OHSA’s website. The training is delivered through a mix of online sessions and practical workshops, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for volunteers with busy schedules.
With this extended programme, OHSA is not just investing in the safety of Malta’s volunteers but also empowering them with valuable skills. So, if you’re a volunteer or know someone who is, don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your volunteering experience.
As Malta’s voluntary sector continues to grow, let’s ensure that safety remains a top priority. Let’s make every volunteering hour count, knowing that we’re protected and prepared.
As one volunteer put it, “This training has given me the confidence to volunteer safely and effectively. I feel more empowered to make a difference.” Let’s spread this empowerment across Malta’s volunteering community.
