Voluntary Heroes: OHSA Offers Free Safety Training

Imagine this: you’re volunteering at a local charity in Malta, helping out with a community event. Suddenly, a small fire breaks out in the kitchen. What do you do? Would you know how to handle such a situation safely? Thanks to the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA), volunteers across Malta can now receive free health and safety training to handle just such scenarios.

OHSA’s Generous Offer

The OHSA has extended its free health and safety training programme to voluntary organisations until the end of 2023. This initiative aims to equip volunteers with the necessary skills to ensure their safety and that of the people they serve. The training covers a wide range of topics, from fire safety and first aid to manual handling and risk assessment.

“We understand that volunteers are the backbone of many community initiatives,” said OHSA’s CEO, Joseph Farrugia. “By providing them with these essential skills, we’re not only protecting them but also empowering them to make a bigger impact.”

Local Organisations Benefit

Local voluntary organisations are already reaping the benefits of this programme. The Malta Community Chest Fund Foundation, for instance, has seen an increase in volunteer participation since offering the OHSA training. “It’s not just about learning new skills,” said the foundation’s director, Maria Dimech. “It’s also about showing our volunteers that we value their safety and well-being.”

Similarly, the Richmond Foundation, which focuses on mental health, has integrated the OHSA training into its volunteer induction process. “We want our volunteers to feel confident and competent in their roles,” said the foundation’s CEO, Angele Deguara. “This training helps us achieve that.”

How to Sign Up

Voluntary organisations interested in availing themselves of this free training can contact the OHSA directly. The authority will then arrange for a trainer to visit the organisation at a time that suits them. The training can be tailored to the specific needs and activities of the organisation.

“We want to make this as easy as possible for voluntary organisations,” said Farrugia. “Our goal is to ensure that every volunteer in Malta has access to this vital training.”

So, if you’re a volunteer or know someone who is, don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your safety skills. Reach out to the OHSA today and make sure you’re ready for any situation that might arise. After all, safety should never be an afterthought, especially when it comes to those who give their time and energy to make Malta a better place.