PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR JUSTICE AND REFORM OF THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR Free training by OHSA for voluntary, socio-cultural and NGOs

The Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) is strengthening its commitment to health and safety by extending free training that will now also be offered to voluntary organisations and NGOs.

This initiative forms part of a clear vision to ensure that health and safety is not limited solely to paid employment, but also includes voluntary work, as established in the Occupational Health and Safety Act that came into force in 2024.

"When we invest in volunteers, we are directly investing in our communities. This is an investment in people who serve with dedication and who deserve a safe and protected environment," stated Minister Jonathan Attard.

Through a substantial investment allocated in Budget 2026, this programme will offer practical, structured, and accessible training to thousands of volunteers across Malta and Gozo. Minister Attard added that this extension reflects a commitment to communities by helping to reduce risks and fostering a culture of prevention and responsibility.

He further explained that the course is designed in a practical and effective way, divided into two parts. The first part focuses on general knowledge of health and safety in the workplace, basic principles applicable to everyone, regardless of sector. The second part offers sector-specific training, so participants receive knowledge relevant to their actual activities, whether they are involved in organising events, manual work, installations, or other community activities.

While noting that the first phase of this training was very well received since its launch last January, with hundreds of applications, the Minister concluded by encouraging all voluntary organisations to take advantage of this opportunity and invest in the skills and safety of their members for the benefit of the entire community.

OHSA Chief Executive Officer Dr Josianne Cutajar said that the Authority launched this extension of free health and safety training to voluntary organisations, Church entities, local councils, and NGOs. It is estimated that there are more than 1,800 registered voluntary organisations, with tens of thousands of active volunteers across the country.

"It is important that voluntary work is safeguarded and that everyone who contributes does so in safe and dignified conditions. This is being done to provide support to all those working as volunteers in every sector. The free training offered by the Authority is a direct investment in Maltese society to strengthen the voluntary sector," Dr Cutajar stated.

The initiative is being carried out in collaboration with various entities, including the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector, the Association of Local Councils, and the Archdiocese of Malta, to ensure that the training reaches as many organisations and individuals as possible.

Among those present were OHSA Chairperson Pierre Fava, Commissioner for Animal Welfare Dr Fleur Abela, Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations Jesmond Saliba, Administrative Secretary of the Archdiocese of Malta Michael Pace Ross, Executive Officer from the Association of Local Councils Justine Decelis and Officer from the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector Stephanie Micallef.

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