IDENTIFICATION AND ANALYSIS OF KEY CHALLENGES HINDERING EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH (OSH) ACT 2007 IN MARITIME TRAINING INSTITUTIONS IN MOMBASA COUNTY, KENYA
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Abstract
This study was an investigation into the factors hindering effective implementation of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act 2007 in maritime training institutions in Mombasa County, Kenya Despite the existence of comprehensive occupational safety legislation, maritime training institutions continue to experience elevated workplace incidents and suboptimal employee performance. The study adopted a descriptive research design with a target population of 250 employees across four maritime training institutions. A sample of 152 respondents was selected using proportionate stratified random sampling based on Krejcie and Morgan's formula [1], yielding a response rate of 87.5% (n=133). Data was collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, and multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed that inadequate funding for OSH programs (Mean=4.21, SD=0.93), inconsistent access to personal protective equipment (Mean=4.12, SD=0.89), weak enforcement of safety policies (Mean=3.94, SD=1.19), and limited training on OSH provisions (Mean=3.87, SD=1.11) were the most significant implementation challenges. Compliance with OSH procedures enhanced employees' ability to work safely and efficiently (Mean=4.18, SD=0.92), while institutional commitment to safety demonstrated strong positive impact on job satisfaction and work output (Mean=4.17, SD=0.88). Pearson's correlation analysis indicated strong positive relationships between employee performance and implementation challenges (r=0.613, p<0.01), existing OSH practices (r=0.559, p<0.01), and institutional safety culture (r=0.647, p<0.01). Multiple regression analysis showed that these three factors jointly explained 72.5% of the variance in employee performance (R²=0.725, F=79.42, p<0.001). The study concludes that resource constraints, weak enforcement mechanisms, and low management commitment significantly undermine OSH Act implementation, thereby affecting employee performance. Recommendations include increased budgetary allocation for OSH programs, regular training, consistent provision of PPE, strengthened safety culture, and enhanced leadership commitment to improve compliance and employee outcomes in maritime training institutions.
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