Manager’s perspective on improving occupational health and safety in the Public Environmental Health Department

Abstract

This research examines managerial perspectives on improving occupational health and safety practices within environmental health departments, focusing on hazard assessment activities. The study addresses a significant gap in understanding how managers conceptualise, implement, and enhance safety protocols while balancing worker safety with environmental health protection objectives. Through qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews with eight departmental managers, the research reveals multifaceted approaches to policy implementation, risk assessment, and safety culture development. The findings demonstrate varying levels of comprehension and implementation of departmental health and safety policies across the management hierarchy. Three distinct approaches to risk assessment emerged: systematic assessment, department-specific risk focus, and integrated risk management. The research identified sophisticated frameworks for communication infrastructure, professional development, and knowledge integration while revealing administrative constraints, operational impediments, and human factors affecting implementation. Analysis indicates an organisation transitioning from traditional occupational health and safety patterns toward integrated management systems. While notable progress is evident in risk assessment methodologies and professional development, opportunities exist for policy standardisation, communication optimisation, and cultural evolution. The study highlights the importance of balanced approaches to implementation, combining structured frameworks with adaptable protocols. The research contributes to both theoretical understanding and practical application, providing insights for organisations implementing similar expansions of safety management frameworks. Recommendations include standardised policy frameworks, integrated competency programs, and strong knowledge management systems while focusing on human factors in achieving comprehensive safety management objectives. These findings are crucial for establishing standardised environmental health frameworks and encouraging safer workplaces through managerial leadership, communication, and training.