The Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON) advocates for legislative action to establish a dedicated institute for safety management in Nigeria. This call stems from a deep concern about the lack of consistent adherence to safety protocols across various sectors, both public and private. ISPON believes that a formalized institute, backed by law, would provide the necessary framework for enforcing safety regulations and holding organizations accountable for violations. Such an institute would contribute significantly to a culture of safety consciousness, ultimately minimizing accidents and fostering safer working environments throughout the country. ISPON emphasizes that this legislative push is not merely about creating another bureaucratic entity but about laying the foundation for a systematic approach to safety management, a critical need in Nigeria’s evolving industrial landscape.
Central to ISPON’s argument is the requirement for all organizations, regardless of size or sector, to establish dedicated safety departments and implement comprehensive safety policies. Crucially, these policies should not exist merely on paper; active enforcement is paramount. ISPON stresses the importance of qualified safety professionals overseeing and implementing these policies, arguing that only those with specialized training can effectively interpret and enforce complex safety regulations. Assigning this responsibility to individuals lacking the necessary expertise undermines the very purpose of safety protocols, potentially leading to oversight and ultimately, jeopardizing the safety of employees and the public. This focus on professionalization underscores ISPON’s commitment to raising the standards of safety practice in Nigeria.
ISPON acknowledges the government’s initial step of establishing the institute through an act of parliament, but emphasizes that legislation alone is insufficient. While prescribed sanctions for safety violations are a necessary deterrent, the core issue lies in ensuring compliance, particularly within the public sector. ISPON contends that the government, often the biggest offender of its own regulations, must lead by example. Consistent adherence to safety protocols within government agencies would send a powerful message and encourage greater compliance across all sectors. This emphasis on governmental accountability highlights the integral role of leadership in fostering a nationwide culture of safety.
The induction of 31 new members into ISPON further emphasizes the institute’s commitment to professionalizing the field of safety management. This ceremony signifies not just a welcoming of new members but also a reinforcement of the legal requirements for practicing safety professionals in Nigeria. According to Section 14 of the relevant law, individuals presenting themselves as safety professionals without proper membership in ISPON are committing an offense. The induction process, involving rigorous examinations, screenings, and formal admittance, ensures that certified professionals possess the necessary knowledge and skills to uphold the highest standards of safety practice. This meticulous approach to membership underscores ISPON’s dedication to quality and professionalism.
ISPON’s Rivers State coordinator, Fasusi Olayinka, highlighted the organization’s multi-pronged approach to promoting safety awareness within the state. This includes collaborations with relevant organizations, public awareness campaigns, workshops, seminars, and training programs aimed at educating the public on safety issues. Olayinka underscored the importance of collaborative efforts, particularly with the Rivers State government, to expand the reach of these initiatives. He called for governmental support in sponsoring projects, particularly those aimed at reaching rural communities where access to safety information may be limited. This appeal for collaboration reflects ISPON’s recognition that widespread safety consciousness requires a collective effort.
Olayinka further emphasized the need for logistical resources, such as vehicles, to enhance compliance monitoring efforts. These resources are crucial for enabling ISPON to effectively monitor safety practices across various locations and ensure adherence to regulations. The call for logistical support underscores the practical challenges faced by ISPON in fulfilling its mandate and highlights the importance of adequate resources in achieving its goals. By securing the necessary resources, ISPON can strengthen its capacity to enforce regulations, conduct inspections, and provide on-site support, ultimately contributing to a safer environment for all residents of Rivers State. This comprehensive approach, combining education, collaboration, and robust enforcement, reflects ISPON’s unwavering dedication to advancing safety practices and fostering a safety-conscious culture in Nigeria.
