Factors contributing to non-compliance with safety regulations among cleaners: A selected rural university in South Africa

Abstract

Occupational Health and Safety has become one of the leading concerns throughout the cleaning industry. Compliance with safety regulations among cleaners of the University of Venda is still a challenge. The study aims to investigate factors contributing to non-compliance with safety regulations among cleaners: A selected rural university in South Africa. The study was conducted at the University of Venda, South Africa. A quantitative approach using cross-sectional descriptive survey design was employed. A pre-test was carried out to determine the reliability of the researcher-developed questionnaire. A total population will be applied and all the 164 was included in the study. The data collected was analyzed using SPSS 23.0. Data was presented in the form of graphs, tables and charts. A self-administrated questionnaire was used to collect data. Results: A total population of 164 cleaners took part in the research project, 119 (74%) were females and 45 (26%) were males. Among the participant 5%, n = 9 had no form of education background, 28%, n = 46 with a primary education background, 48%, n = 79 with a secondary education back and only 19%, n = 30 with a post-secondary background. Participants with a post- Matric back ground showed significant understanding (90%, n = 27) on the importance of complying with safety guidelines, as compared to those with no form of formal education (44%, n = 4). There was a significant relationship between gender and level of education with regards to the factors contributing to non-compliance with safety regulations among cleaners. The study revealed that the female participants are more likely to adhere to safety regulations (65%, n = 74) as compared to male participants (63%, n = 26). Majority of cleaners have a fair knowledge on the safety compliance within the working environment, however there is a need to put more effort on the safety regulations practice. Conclusion: The study concludes that female participants are more cautious within the workplace as compared to the male participants and that the level of education also has significant relationship on the level of compliance with regards to safety regulations. Recommendations: There is a need to have a functional safety committee that will ensure that all safety protocols are being followed, the committee may also amend the existing policy on given period of time.