Abstract:
Rapid industrialization in the past two decades has brought fast economic development in Tanzania. However, the
risks of work-related diseases, injuries and accidents have increased with the economic growth. Over the past years
in Tanzania the number of accidents reported countrywide were more than 1,889. During the same period a total of
668.5 million Tanzania shillings were used to compensate occupational accident victims, the money used in
compensation could be used for accident prevention to reduce human loss and suffering. In many organizations,
most frontline workers lack proper education and their health and safety awareness is in question.
This research examined the awareness of employees regarding the management of occupational health and safety
(OHS) at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA). 133 employees from the IITA office in Tanzania
both Arusha and Dar es Salaam offices participated in this study. Data was collected using a set of questionnaires,
interviews, and observations. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, t-test and ANOVA.The findings
showed that employees were aware of the issues related to health and safety policy procedures. This awareness was
transferred through monthly meetings within stations departments, regular training, seminars, refreshing courses,
etc. To improve awareness the study recommends regular training, provision of adequate personal protective gear
and Management supports should be emphasized.
