ENHANCING SAFETY THROUGH EFFECTIVE WORKSHOP MANAGEMENT IN ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC DEPARTMENTS OF RIVERS STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGES

The study investigated strategies for effectively managing and preventing accidents in electrical/electronics’ workshops in Technical Colleges located in Rivers State. It formulated four research questions and hypotheses to guide the inquiry. Descriptive survey research design was used for the study. The population of study comprised 31 principals, teachers, and instructors specializing in electrical/electronic trade across four governmentowned technical colleges in Rivers State. Due to the manageable population size, the entire population was included in the study. Data collection utilized a structured questionnaire titled Effective Management of Electrical/Electronic Workshop Accidents in Technical Colleges. Validation of the instrument involved assessment involved 3 experts in electrical/electronic technology and measurement and evaluation, with their feedback incorporated into the questionnaire. The scales were tested for reliability (consistency in measurement) using the Cronbach Alpha Coefficient. The entire alpha coefficients of the individual constructs were above the recommended cut-off (0.70), and therefore considered good. Data analysis involved calculating mean and standard deviation for research questions and employing Z-test for hypothesis testing. Findings revealed the occurrence of eleven types of accidents weekly, with some attributed to unsafe practices by students/trainees, resulting in injuries, equipment damage, and fatalities. Twenty-three effective management techniques for accident prevention were identified. Recommendations included providing orientation and sensitization to workshop users, instituting a policy for accident investigation and documentation, ensuring provision of safety tools and equipment, mandating training for teachers/instructors and workshop attendants, and expediting repair and replacement of faulty equipment post-accident to resume workshop activities promptly