Abstract:
Unsafe working conditions create heavy burdens in workplaces and on the wellbeing of workers. Despite this,
Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS) to reduce accidents and diseases in workplaces
remain inadequate in many countries, including Botswana. An exploratory cross-sectional study, using
secondary data, was undertaken to establish OHSMS practices in various industrial sectors in Botswana. The
results showed that a quarter (27.6%) and about half of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), respectively, and
just over half (60%) of large enterprises, have existing OHSMS. Only 29.2% of enterprises had an OHS policy
statement. The elements of OHSMS were not uniformly implemented across all enterprises, with SMEs faring
poorly. However, 71.1% of enterprises reported provision of induction courses. OHSMS is not widely practiced
in Botswana, raising concerns for worker wellbeing, particularly in SMEs. Further research is needed to identify
gaps and the development of a coherent OHSMS for the country.
