Investigation of significant factors influencing occupational safety and health practices : a case of engine rooms in offshore patrol vessel of Sri Lanka Navy

Abstract

Deviation from perfect Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) practices on board naval ships is a common issue faced by the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) and other navies worldwide. Many of the identified issues and their causes are shared across different naval contexts. However, ergonomics, a critical factor in OSH, is often overlooked, despite its significant impact both in acute and chronic scenarios. This study aims to investigate the significant factors influencing occupational safety and health practices: a case of engine rooms in an offshore patrol vessel of the Sri Lanka Navy where such deviations have been a persistent issue in recent years. The methodology involved a systematic approach to identifying and prioritizing the causes of OSH deviations through data collection, analysis, and expert consultation within the SLN. By focusing on the engine rooms of naval ships, the study highlights the factors that contribute to occupational hazards and offers a framework for ranking their significance. The study was based on both qualitative and quantitative analysis. All quantitative data were analyzed using inferential statistics tools. Through the literature and questionnaire survey, six factors; Administration, Technology, Finance, Knowledge, Interest and Environment were identified as the major issues of OSH deviations, which were based on various influential factors. These factors not only affect the immediate safety of personnel but also lead to long-term health consequences. The developed approach can provide a replicable framework for other navies and organizations facing similar challenges. By identifying and prioritizing causes specific to their capability, operational contexts, management can implement targeted interventions that address the most critical issues. This study serves as a foundation for enhancing OSH compliance, and safeguarding the health of naval personnel in the SLN and beyond.