Finesse Consults Ltd had the honor of attending a critical Safety Workshop hosted by NCOSHA Uganda Ltd on Friday, April 12th, 2024. This joint event aimed to provide critical insights into safety procedures, with a specific focus on Engineering Students at Kyambogo University. The program provided a platform for the next generation of engineers to gain the information and skills needed to promote safety in all aspects of life.
Nichodemus AGUMENAWE, a respected Technical Safety Consultant at NCOSHA (U) Ltd, delivered an informative presentation that was the workshop’s highlight. Nichodemus delved into the devastating facts surrounding vehicle accidents in our country, highlighting the urgent need for aggressive efforts to reduce such incidences. He emphasized that innovation plays a critical role in building secure settings.
One of the more insightful sections of the workshop focused on the concept of emergency numbers. In a real-time demonstration, participants were asked to test emergency numbers on their mobile devices, with unexpected and alarming results. A later poll revealed that a large portion of students either did not use emergency numbers or had difficulty reaching out for help successfully. This observation caused Nichodemus to call for a fundamental change in how emergency numbers are viewed and used.
Nichodemus emphasized three critical attributes for an effective emergency number:
- Availability: An emergency number should have a high probability of being reachable, ideally around 90%.
- Response Capability: The designated emergency contact should be equipped to handle emergency situations calmly and efficiently, without succumbing to panic.
- Medical Awareness: It is imperative that the designated emergency contact possesses knowledge about the medical conditions of the individual they are supporting.
A heartbreaking statement from one of the students highlighted the common attitude regarding phone calls: “I rarely pick up calls, whether they’re saved numbers or not, and it’s even worse if they’re a random number.” This open revelation highlighted the need for a cultural shift that prioritizes the effectiveness of emergency communication routes.
Following this eye-opening seminar, participants took proactive measures to address gaps in their disaster preparedness. Many students created emergency numbers for the first time, while others updated their contacts based on the workshop’s observations. Students were also tasked with informing their chosen emergency contacts about their role and duties, promoting clearer lines of communication during times of crisis.
In the afternoon session, the focus shifted towards practical skills with first aid and fire safety training. Participants engaged in hands-on activities and simulations aimed at equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively to medical emergencies and fire incidents. The interactive nature of the training fostered a dynamic learning environment where participants could apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Overall, the Safety Workshop organized by NCOSHA Uganda Ltd in collaboration with Finesse Consults Ltd served as a catalyst for promoting safety awareness among Engineering Students at Kyambogo University. By instilling a proactive mindset and imparting practical skills, the workshop empowered participants to become agents of change in fostering safer communities
