dc.description.abstract | The principle objective of the study was to establish the occupational health and safety
programmes adopted by banks operating in Kenya. It also sought to establish the hazards
perceived by the banks to affect the health and safety of the employees.
The need for this study was motivated by the fact that, health and safety has traditionally
been associated with manufacturing sector. There was therefore an urge to establish if
the service sector industries recognize that occupational health and safety relates to them
as well. Further, the legislation on occupational health and safety is based on physical
conditions that would affect employees at workplace. Do the banks realize that the
hazards that target the physiological and mental health are prevalent in the service
industry? And if they do, can they address them effectively?
The findings of the study have revealed that banks are very keen on physical and
mechanical hazards that affect employees. These hazards are easily recognized by the
management and adequately addressed. However, physiological and mental hazards such
as workload, workplace, working hours, lack of social support, computers, strict
deadlines, and high targets has not been given a lot of consideration. Hence the
programmes, which are meant to address them, are not well developed. Another area that
was found wanting is programmes to assist employees to manage their stress levels.
To conclude, this study indicates the challenges facing managers of service industry . . because of the changed needs of employees on issues regarding their health and safety.
The directorate of the occupational health and safety has a big challenge of not only
reviewing the legislation but also enlightening employers on the importance of self
regulatory health and safety programmes. | en |