OHSA Extends Free Health & Safety Training for Malta’s Voluntary Sector

Imagine this: a bustling NGO office in Msida, where volunteers are trained to handle hazardous materials, all thanks to a free course offered by the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA). This isn’t a one-off scenario; it’s a reality extended for another year, thanks to OHSA’s commitment to keeping Malta’s voluntary sector safe.

A Year of Safety, Extended

OHSA has announced that it will continue its free health and safety training programme for voluntary organisations for another year. This means that NGOs, charities, and other voluntary groups can still access vital training in areas like first aid, fire safety, and risk assessment, all at no cost.

This extension comes as a relief to many organisations that rely heavily on volunteers. “We’ve seen a significant increase in interest and participation since the programme started,” says Dr. Elaine Scerri, OHSA’s Director. “We realised that there’s a real need for this, so we decided to extend it.”

Training Tailored to the Sector

The training is tailored to the unique needs of the voluntary sector. It covers topics like manual handling, which is crucial for organisations involved in logistics or physical work. There’s also a focus on mental health, reflecting the emotional challenges volunteers can face.

“We’ve seen organisations sending their volunteers for training in groups,” says Dr. Scerri. “It’s not just about learning new skills; it’s also about team-building and creating a culture of safety within these organisations.”

Getting Involved

If you’re part of a voluntary organisation, you can register for the training on OHSA’s website. The courses are held at OHSA’s training centre in Birkirkara, with some organisations also hosting sessions at their own premises.

“We encourage all voluntary organisations to take advantage of this opportunity,” says Dr. Scerri. “Safety should always be a priority, and this is a great way to ensure that your volunteers are protected.”

So, whether you’re volunteering at a charity shop in Sliema or a community centre in Żabbar, this extension means you could soon be gaining valuable skills, all while keeping yourself and those around you safe.