Zambia Occupational Health and Safety Association (ZOHSA)

ZOHSA was honored to be invited by IHS Towers for the commemoration of their Safety month, where over 45 participants joined in both virtually and in person. We took this opportunity to advance ZOHSA's mission. Our sincere thanks go to Mr. Manda Kapompo the HSE Manager, Ms.Lungowe and the entire IHS management for the privilege. During the session, we also emphasized the need for strong management support and the vital role all employee play in the safety cycle. At the same occasion employees who consistently championed the Safety agenda were honored with a Certificate of Achievement, recognizing their dedication and hard work. Our simple massage is this , Collaboration is the key; We can no longer work in silos. Together, we can achieve more!

SAFETY CONCERNS REGARDING ZESCO AND LOAD SHEDDING The recent load shedding by Zesco presents not only economic challenges but also significant safety concerns for your customers and the general public. The following are some of the critical safety risks associated with the current approach: 1. INCONSISTENT LOAD SHEDDING SCHEDULES: The lack of consistency in adhering to load shedding schedules, both when switching power on and off, has caught many customers off guard. This unpredictability poses a risk of serious accidents, such as electric shocks or electrical fires, when power is unexpectedly restored. 2. RISKS TO PRIVATE HEALTHCARE FACILITIES: While government hospitals are reportedly excluded from load shedding, many private healthcare facilities are connected to the residential grid. These facilities often house critical care units, such as operating theaters and neonatal incubators for premature infants. In the event of an unplanned power outage, there could be a tragic and unnecessary loss of life due to equipment failure or delayed medical interventions. 3. RISKS TO SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMEs): Many SMEs are forced to work with substandard equipment that may not be properly insulated, handled by personnel who may not be fully competent or adequately trained. This situation is often worsened by the use of substandard Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). These factors raise serious safety concerns, as the risk of electrical hazards, including shocks and fires, increases significantly during unexpected power outages or surges. To mitigate these risks, Zesco must prioritize public safety by taking the following actions: IMPROVING COMMUNICATION: Consistently and accurately communicate load shedding schedules to the public, ensuring that customers are adequately informed and can take necessary precautions to protect themselves, their families, and their property. - PUBLIC EDUCATION CAMPAIGNS:Launch educational initiatives to inform the public about the dangers associated with load shedding, including safe practices for handling power outages and the proper use of backup power systems. - COLLABORATE WITH PRIVATE HEALTHCARE FACILITIES:Work closely with private hospitals and clinics to ensure they have reliable backup power systems and are prepared for any outages that might occur, reducing the risk of life-threatening situations. - SUPPORT SMEs WITH SAFETY GUIDELINES:Develop and disseminate safety guidelines specifically tailored for SMEs to help them improve their operational safety standards, ensure the use of quality equipment, and encourage the provision of adequate PPE to workers. The safety of the Zambian people, their property, and critical infrastructure reliant on power lies in your hands, Zesco. It is imperative to address these safety concerns promptly to avoid turning the current power situation into a national crisis. Eustance Shanzi

🥳 Relive the #AfriSAFE experience from Captain Musa Nuhu, former Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority. 🌍 Don’t miss your chance to experience even much more at AfriSAFE 2024! 📅 DATE: November 7 & 8, 2024 📍 VENUE: Radisson Blu and The Boma, Avani Victoria Falls Resorts Livingstone, #Zambia Secure your spot today at www.afrisafe.org 🚨 For sponsorships, inquiries, or exhibitions, contact +2348036979392 Headline Sponsor: Zambia Sugar Key Sponsors: IOSH, Golden Africa Djibouti Sarl, TotalEnergies, Zambia Marketing Limited Hybrid Group, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, BCK Investment Ltd, SMTS Zambia Ltd, Flocrunch, JPTS international, Kaileys Consortium, Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers, National Headquarters {NiSafetyE}. Key Supporters: Milary Limited, Qodar Safety Consults, SafetyPlus Engineering services, Sttrutt Integrated Services Limited, Movejeje (official travel partner). Key Partners: Australia Zambia Business Council Inc, LifeLine Wellness Connect, Lagos State Safety Commission, Global EHS Professionals, South African Institute of Safety and Health (SAIOSH), American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Nigeria, Workplace Safety Professionals Association of Kenya , Zambia Occupational Health and Safety Association (ZOHSA), HSEQ Professionals Without Borders and more.. #HSENations #Health #Safety #Sustainability #Environmental #SafetyConference #AfricaSafety #SafetyEvent #ZambiaSugar #HSEEvent #SafetyEvent

As AI, IoT, and robotics increasingly take over tasks previously performed by humans, who should we interview and where should we obtain statements in the event of an accident involving these technologies? Additionally, who would be held responsible for such incidents?

SAFETY MOTIVATION Safety can indeed be a lucrative and rewarding career, offering significant financial and professional benefits. However, these should never overshadow the true motivation behind our work. Our primary drive must always be to save lives and protect the well-being of those around us. When we prioritize the safety and health of others, the rewards naturally follow, creating a meaningful and impactful career. Eustance Shanzi- ZOHSA PRESIDENT

ZOHSA Professional Coaching Clinic We sincerely thank everyone who attended the ZOHSA Professional Coaching Clinic. A special thank you goes to all the silent partners who prefer not to be mentioned for their financial support. We also extend a very special thanks to our facilitators Christopher Haboombe, wellington ngosa and Fellician Ngosa. Last but not least, thank you to all the participants who made this event possible. Together, we can achieve great things. Copperbelt, put on your dancing shoes! Thank you. Best regards, Eustance Shanzi Chief Steward - Zambia Occupational Health and Safety Association (ZOHSA)