By Sharine Mukazi and Tinotenda Makusha
The Human Resources Department, through the Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) Committee, has successfully completed a four-day training programme on occupational safety and health for council employees.
The final session was held today in St Mary’s, where participants observed a moment of silence in honour of the late Ms Christine Moses, a long-serving and dedicated employee.
The training, which covered all administrative districts—Zengeza, St Mary’s, Seke South, and Seke North—as well as the head office and the workshop, sought to equip employees with the knowledge and skills to identify and mitigate workplace hazards.
Throughout the sessions, employees received guidance on critical health and safety protocols, including emergency response procedures, hazard reporting, and best practices for creating a safe work environment.
The interactive approach also provided a platform for employees to ask questions and raise concerns.
Health and Safety Officer Mrs Venencia Mugandi emphasised the importance of vigilance in all workspaces.
“We are here to discuss your safety and health. Hazards are not only found in the field but in offices as well. Let’s make it a habit to check for risks every day before starting work,” she said.
She also highlighted the dangers faced by sewer workers who often encounter methane gas and biological hazards in manholes.
“Always work as a team and ensure not only your own safety but also that of your colleagues,” she added.
Refuse collectors were specifically cautioned against sitting on heaps of garbage in moving trucks, as this exposes them to preventable accidents.
Mrs. Mugandi further acknowledged the challenges employees encounter and assured them that the council is working towards lasting solutions.
The training forms part of the council’s ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of safety and well-being across all departments.
By empowering employees with the right knowledge and practical skills, the municipality aims to reduce workplace incidents and enhance productivity through a healthier workforce.
