Challenges Faced by Occupational Safety and Health Managers in the Manufacturing Industry – Sri Lanka

Research at a glance

This write up is based on a case study design research conducted with a qualitative thematic analysis approach (purposive sampling with semi structured interviews) for the purpose of a master’s thesis. Due to the word count limitations, only the key findings of the research are briefly mentioned. This study was engaging with the challenges faced by the safety managers in the manufacturing industry. In Sri Lanka, there are no standards, guidelines or product standards for personal protective equipment. Due to the gaps in regulatory and legislative framework, safety managers are facing immense challenges in ensuring safety & health in their respective work environments. PPE is a critical element in OSH and this study was focused on PPE related challenges. Despite regulatory gaps, there are organizations who are maintaining higher standards of occupational safety and health and winning ‘national and international awards. Through a case study design with a qualitative approach, this study was focused on the challenges faced by safety managers as well as their initiatives to overcome those challenges. It was evident during the research that there are challenges in establishing a system to select, source and use personal protective equipment due to the regulatory and legislative gaps. Also, it was evident that some safety managers were using very innovative ways to overcome those challenges. With all the challenges faced by the safety managers, it is important for the government of Sri Lanka to establish a regulatory body, product standards and guidelines for personal protective equipment (PPE).