Awareness, Attitude, and Practices on Workplace Safety and Security Among Faculty and Staff of a Public Higher Education Institution in Western Visayas, Philippines

Abstract

Workplace safety and security are critical concerns in higher education institutions, as they influence employee well-being, productivity, and organizational effectiveness. This study examined the levels of awareness, attitude, and practices on workplace safety and security among faculty and staff of a public higher education institution in Western Visayas, Philippines. A descriptive-comparative research design was employed, utilizing a survey questionnaire with high internal consistency to gather data from 153 faculty and non-teaching personnel. Findings revealed that respondents demonstrated a high level of awareness and a positive attitude toward workplace safety and security, while safety practices were also favorably observed, although they were demonstrated less consistently than awareness and attitude. When respondents were grouped according to sex, no significant differences were found in their levels of awareness, attitude, and practices, indicating that male and female employees shared comparable perceptions and behaviors related to workplace safety and security. Similarly, no significant differences were observed when respondents were grouped according to employment category, suggesting that faculty and staff exhibited a common understanding and implementation of safety and security measures within the institution. The results indicate a generally uniform safety culture across employee groups, reflecting the effectiveness of institutional safety and security initiatives. However, the findings also highlight the need to strengthen the translation of positive awareness and attitudes into consistent safety practices. Continuous safety training, regular monitoring, and sustained administrative support are recommended to further enhance workplace safety and security in higher education institutions.