ASSESSMENT OF THE HEALTH AND SAFETY PRACTICES AT FILLING STATIONS IN BLANTYRE CITY, MALAWI

Globally, the effects of human activity on the physical environment have become more pronounced, especially in metropolitan areas, as a result of population growth and the expansion of businesses like petrol stations. In Blantyre, filling stations are being built close to one another in populated locations and some cases, adjacent to residential areas, which is against the law and the recommended health and safety guidelines. The paper sought to assess the health and safety practices in petrol stations in Blantyre County. Primary data was collected from questionnaires and key informant interviews based on purposive sampling, whereas secondary data was obtained from reports. Both quantitative and qualitative analysis of data was done. SPSS was used to code and analyze quantitative data. Relative frequencies were determined through descriptive statistics of data. Utilizing percentages and frequency, data was compared and corroborated. Correlation and regression were used in inferential statistics to determine relationships between connected variables. The results indicate that the majority of employees undergo training and have knowledge of safety awareness measures. Although the majority (90%) of the filling stations provided employees with full protective gear, several station facilities provided their employees with footwear alone, exposing employees to the risk of injury. In addition, the majority of the petrol stations had a minimum of at least a fire extinguisher in readiness to handle fire emergencies. Some employees are not aware of the OSHA policies, fire extinguisher use, safety measures, safety standards and what to do in case of emergencies. This study recommends that MERA should increase the inspections and ensure that filling stations adhere to the recommended level of health and safety standards.