Economic growth raises demand for OSHA services

GEITA: CHATO District Commissioner, Mr Louis Bura, has called on the Occupational Safety and Health Authority (OSHA) to scale up inspection and advisory services to match rising demand driven by rapid economic growth in the district.

He made the call during the opening of an occupational safety and health training for welders and carpenters at Kalebezo Village in Nyamirembe Ward, Chato District in Geita Region.

The training, conducted recently under OSHA’s strategic plan, involved 15 members of the Smart Welders and Furnitures group, whose centre offers vocational skills to residents within and beyond Nyamirembe Ward.

Mr Bura said Chato has recorded notable growth in economic activities, including mining, over the past three years.

“I commend OSHA for effectively executing its mandate of overseeing workplace safety and health nationwide.

However, fast-growing areas like Chato urgently need expanded services,” he said.

He noted that awareness of OSHA services has increased, with more people now seeking workplace inspections, health checks, training and professional guidance to improve working conditions.

ALSO READ: TR hails OSHA’s development role

The District Commissioner also commended OSHA for providing training and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to the artisans, whose work supports livelihoods across the district.

OSHA Lake Zone Manager, Mr Lodgard Bishanga, said the training aimed at equipping participants with knowledge on workplace hazards and risk control measures.

Participants also received PPE, including safety coats, gloves, hard hats and face masks, supplied by the government to enhance compliance with safety standards.

Some trainees, including Ms Lulinda Manyema and Ms Neema Kalebo, thanked the government for boosting their understanding of occupational safety and health and for providing protective gear.