IMPACT OF TRADE UNIONS’ PRESENCE ON THE ENHANCEMENT OF SAFETY PERFORMANCE OF WORKERS IN THE MARITIME INDUSTRY IN LAGOS STATE

Abstract

Trade unions plays a pivotal role in championing the rights and well-being of workers, including the enhancement of job safety performance. The study investigated the impact of trade unions’ presence in the enhancement of job safety performance of workers in the Maritime industry in Lagos state. Proportionate random sampling technique was employed to select two hundred (200) workers. The data collection instrument consisted of a researcher-designed questionnaire. The data analysis involved pie charts and multiple regression analysis. The findings reveal that trade unions’ presence significantly enhance workers’ adherence to safety regulations and standards to perform their job safely (R=.783, P<0.05); trade unions’ presence significantly enhance safety knowledge and skills of workers to perform their job safely (R=.590, P<0.05); trade unions’ presence significantly improve the provision of proper safety equipment to enhance workers' job safely (R=.671, P<0.05); trade unions’ presence significantly enhance workers with hazard identification and control to perform their job safely (R=.592, P<0.05); trade unions’ presence significantly enhance support to workers who experience injuries or accidents to perform their job safely (R=.671, P<0.05) in the Maritime industry in Lagos state. Considering the findings, it was therefore suggested that trade unions should continue to actively engage with workers and employers to promote adherence to safety regulations and standards; prioritize the provision of safety knowledge and skills to workers through ongoing training programs; actively support employers in ensuring the provision of appropriate safety equipment to workers; work closely with employers to strengthen hazard identification and control processes in the workplace; focus on establishing support systems for workers who experience injuries or accidents.