PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR JUSTICE AND THE REFORM OF THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR Occupational Health and Safety Authority Inaugurates Training Centre and Apprenticeship Programme

The Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) has officially inaugurated a new Training Centre that puts into practice its ongoing commitment to health, safety, and professional development in the workplace. At the same time, a training programme for Officer Trainees was also launched—a national initiative designed to foster the next generation of occupational health and safety professionals.

“The inauguration of OHSA's Training Centre is a testament to this government's strong commitment to workers' health. By investing in training and education, we are not only enhancing workers' skills and awareness around health and safety but also laying the foundation for a more resilient economy. This Centre will ensure that occupational health and safety remain at the forefront of our national agenda, while empowering both individuals and businesses to thrive in a safer work environment," said Minister for Justice and the Reform of the Construction Sector Jonathan Attard.

Strategically designed to serve as a hub for health and safety education, the Centre will offer high-level training aimed at improving the skills of workers, employers, and professionals across all sectors. This investment will not only strengthen workers' capacities but also support Malta's socio-economic sustainability.

The Training Centre will offer a variety of courses, ranging from introductory awareness sessions to specialized training in high-risk sectors such as construction, hazardous substances, and machinery safety. In addition to hands-on training (such as hazard identification and emergency response), some courses will also utilize virtual reality (VR) technology to enhance learning outcomes. OHSA will continually update the curriculum to reflect legislative changes, emerging workplace risks, and advances in technology.

The newly launched training programme will include both theoretical and practical experience, with trainees rotating through various OHSA departments over time. They will gain expert knowledge in areas such as inspection procedures, accident investigations, law enforcement, and risk assessments, among others.

OHSA CEO Josianne Cutajar stated that, “The Training Centre and Officer Training Programme are not just important institutional milestones—they reflect our long-term vision for occupational health and safety in Malta. Through these initiatives, we are empowering professionals, strengthening our regulatory framework, building on our partnerships, and establishing a high standard for OHS training at all levels."

OHSA has already established strong partnerships with leading institutions, including the University of Malta, MCAST, Jobsplus, the Institute for the Public Service (IPS), and the Malta Occupational Safety and Health Practitioners Association (MOSHPA). These collaborations have already led to significant improvements in health and safety education and professional development. In the future, the focus will shift to joint research, curriculum development, and further integration of OHS into educational and vocational training.

Looking ahead, the Centre will also address emerging fields such as digital risk management, artificial intelligence, mental health and psychosocial risks, as well as health and safety in new industries including renewable energy and biotechnology. The Officer Trainee Programme is also expected to be formally recognized, with potential for certification or academic accreditation.

This investment in human resources will help elevate Malta's occupational health and safety standards while ensuring that the country remains a leader in OHS excellence—prepared to meet future challenges with confidence and innovation.

For more information, visit the OHSA website at www.ohsa.mt