Developing an Accident Tracking and Management Framework at Borehole Drilling Sites of Zimbabwe National Water Authority in Gokwe South District of Midlands Province, Zimbabwe

Developing an Accident Tracking and Management Framework at Borehole Drilling Sites of Zimbabwe National Water Authority in Gokwe South District of Midlands Province, Zimbabwe | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Developing an Accident Tracking and Management Framework at Borehole Drilling Sites of Zimbabwe National Water Authority in Gokwe South District of Midlands Province, Zimbabwe EDGAR DUBE This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-8155163/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Borehole drilling characterized by use of heavy equipment’s like drilling rigs, rods, and mud pumps expose employees to certain types of accidents and environmental risks. Borehole drilling activities to meet certain targets have resulted in an average of four people being injured per rig accident-causing muscular disorders and limb fractures to Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) employees. Thus, this research delves into the intricate realm of occupational safety within the context of borehole drilling sites, with a specific focus on the development of an advanced Accident Tracking and Management Framework at borehole drilling sites of Zimbabwe National Water Authority in Gokwe South District, of Midlands’s province, Zimbabwe. The researchers employed a descriptive research design approach using a combination of qualitative and quantitative techniques. The researchers self-administered 130 questionnaires to ZINWA employees using a simple random sampling technique and purposive sampling was used for selecting interviewees of this research. ZINWA’s current accident tracking and management strategies are predominantly reactive rather than proactive, as evidenced by continuous exposure of employees to accidents. A significant majority (70.40%) of employees have indicated these strategies as ineffective, with only (1.60%) of employees indicating these strategies as effective. The research recommends intervention towards continuous safety inspections and safety trainings to improve safety culture within the authorities’ operations. Proposed framework will ensure attainment of sustainable development goal 6 (universal access to water), as well as 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.A, 6.B Presidential Borehole scheme target (drill 35000 boreholes by 2025) and Presidential Rural Horticulture Transformation Programme. Accident Tracking Management Framework Borehole Drilling Sites ZINWA Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Introduction Borehole drilling is a widespread practice that relies on groundwater resources for sustenance exemplified by 2.5 billion people who depend solely on groundwater resources for their daily living (Gronwall and Danert, 2020 ). Accidents in borehole water drilling operations are inevitable (Hafezi, 2023 ; Sumukwo and Nandwa, 2021 ). However, there are numerous strategies in place that are used to track and manage borehole accidents at borehole sites (Li et al., 2020 ). Despite numerous strategies to track and manage accidents at borehole sites, accidents at borehole drilling sites are still occurring at a high rate, indicating the validity of undertaking this study which aims to develop an accident tracking and management framework for accident rates reduction at borehole sites (Skogdalen et al., 2011 ; Abdali et al., 2021 and Elrayah, 2024 ). The strategies used to track and manage accidents include, utilization of advanced borehole cameras by developed countries to monitor drilling operations in real-time, analyzing post-operation data, maintaining equipment, and tracing the underlying causes of accidents, thus accident tracking (Deng et al., 2019 ; Pavicic, 2021). Developed countries like Norway have well-established regulatory systems for borehole drilling (Dudu et al., 2020 ). These well-established regulatory systems are used to track and manage borehole accidents. Upper middle economy countries like China are leading manufactures in borehole water drilling rigs (Wang et al., 2017 ; Wang et al., 2022 ). Hence, they use advanced borehole drilling rigs such as Atlas Copco drill rigs which does not require manual handling (Morton, 2017 ; Talalay, 2023 ). The use of automated and advanced borehole drilling rigs which does not require a lot of manual handling is practical way of managing borehole accidents (Alhammadi et al., 2025 ; Dragomir et al., 2025 ). However, International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC, 2023) released its quarterly summary report of occupational incidents for drill contractors operating worldwide, with 284 total recordable incidents, 77 total lost time incidents and 2 fatalities. Therefore, despite developed countries and upper middle-income countries having all these effective accidents tracking and management strategies, the need to develop an accident tracking and management framework specifically at borehole drilling sites is still valid to reduce all these incidents. In Africa, the tracking and management of accidents for some countries are still dependent on a logbook and accident report system dating back to the 1800s (Parker, 2017 ; Goswami et al., 2022 ). Countries such as Malawi have established technical guidance and standard operating procedures for borehole drilling safety, thus how they manage borehole accidents (Danert, 2020 ). Countries such as Kenya are using advanced technologies such as Ground penetrating radar (GPR) and Electrical sensitivity imaging (ERI) to empower geologist to visualize subsurface structures. Kenya is also using automated drilling rigs that minimize human error and maximizes efficiency as advocated by the LinkedIn profile for Waterlift (2023) also cited in study by Nzau, ( 2021 ). However, despite the use of advanced technologies and methods to visualize subsurface structures, accidents are still occurring during the drilling process, particularly in areas like Enugu, Nigeria, where a gas deposit was unexpectedly found during the digging of a borehole (Chioma, 2023 ). Southern African countries, such as South Africa, are also implementing project risk management strategies, such as risk assessments and evaluations, to effectively handle incidents at borehole drilling sites (Harding, 2017 ; Muller, 2017 and Mollo et al., 2022). Despite Africa using all these strategies to manage and track accidents, the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC, 2022) stated that Africa had 218 injuries and one death in relation to drilling activity in 2021. The data shows that fingers were the most common body parts affected by injuries, accounting for 24.77% of the reported cases (IADC, 2022). Zimbabwe is using safety laws and regulations to manage risks and accidents at any workplace, borehole drilling included and the safety laws include the use of Factories and works Act (20 0f 1948) (Singo et al., 2022 cited Shabani et al., 2023 ). However, accidents and risks continue to upsurge despite these safety laws (Taderera 2012 , Jerie 2012 , Shabani et al., 2023 c). In Zimbabwe borehole drilling companies such as BlueSea drilling company are using safety trainings related to standard work procedures, provision of personal protective equipment, risk assessments, tool box talks to manage hazards and risks that results in accidents at borehole drilling sites. In the event of an accident, accident reports are used to develop remedial actions and trace the underlying causes of accidents, enabling accident tracking. However, employees at BlueSea borehole drilling company are still exposed to hazards and risk factors that contributes to accidents occurrence regardless of the measures that are currently in place (Muringaniza, et al., 2024 ). Thus, the need of a viable framework, hence the relevance of this research. Zimbabwe National Water Authority's (ZINWA) use accident risk registers, risk assessment reports, safety talks to manage accidents at borehole drilling sites and it also uses accident reports to track accident root causes in Manoti, Gokwe South District. However, according to Gozo ( 2015 ), Zimbabwe Water Project report stated that borehole operational accidents are inevitable. Zimbabwe National Water Authority borehole drilling sites are characterized by little concentration on the risk factors and occupational hazards contributing to accident occurrence at borehole drilling sites. The occupational hazards include, physical, chemical, mechanical and ergonomic. These risk factors include operating poorly serviced machines, manual handling of the rigs and improper wearing of proper personal clothing (ZINWA SHE reports, 2024) and this culminated to an average of 4 people being injured per rig accident-causing muscular disorders, limb fractures and blunt force trauma (ZINWA SHE records 2024). There are slight enforcements and concentration on the current accident tracking and management strategies. These include hazard identification and risks assessment reports, accident reports, injuries or near miss reports, trainings, safety inspections, survey and audit reports at borehole drilling sites. This slight enforcement is hindering accurate data collection in relation to accidents at borehole drilling sites, which in turn is hindering continuous accident reporting, root cause identification, and implementation of corrective measures. Safety management systems, policies, accident management systems, safety standards such as (ISO 45001), hazard identification and risk assessments are not fully implemented, absorbed, captivated and esteemed by employees at borehole drilling sites. Accidents at borehole drilling sites are resulting in employees facing injury-related costs, stress, income loss and long term health and implications like induced hearing loss, respiratory illnesses and musculoskeletal related disorders. Employee families are also facing financial burdens like medical expenses, income loss, and social stigmatization. The aftermath effects of aforementioned implications are high absenteeism rates, employee retirement and cessation of Authority operations. The affected employees are also causing the Authority to face penalties from NASSA, resulting in negative publicity, tarnished Authority image, costly legal battles, compensation claims and insurance premiums. All these effects are affecting the workforce morale which in turn is reducing the production levels. It is against this background that this study seeks to (1) analyze the current accident management systems at borehole drilling sites in Manoti ward 1, of Gokwe South District and (2) develop an accident tracking and management framework at borehole drilling sites in Manoti, ward 1, of Gokwe South District. This accident tracking and management framework will be developed with a purpose of achieving mainly sustainable development goal 6.1 (universal access to water), as well as 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.A, 6.B, Presidential Borehole scheme target (to drill 35000 boreholes by 2025) and Presidential Rural Horticulture Transformation Programme. Materials and Methods Description of the Study area The research was based on the primary data collected in Gokwe south district Kana constituency, with Manoti as ward 1 being the specific study area (Muchazondida and Mukorera, 2022 ). Physical geography of the area Gokwe is a district located in the north-western part of Zimbabwe Midlands province, (Tsvangirai, 2019 ). Gokwe has subdivisions which are Gokwe south, Gokwe north and Gokwe urban. The research will be based on the primary data collected in Gokwe south district Kana constituency, with Manoti as ward 1 being the specific study area (Muchazondida and Mukorera, 2022 ). Manoti is situated close to the tribal area, Gokwe Tribal Trust Land and the locality is Madzivazvido. The surrounding areas of Manoti are, Chireya 26 km North, Bikeni Nyemba 40km North, Gorodema village 42 km East, Nenyuka 44km northwest and Chief Sai, 45km south. Landmarks include Nyarukwe hills, 8km northeast, and Sipani Sessami forest area, forest 11km east. The latitude of Manoti is 17˚ 46' "0 and the longitude is 28 ̊ 31' 0". The elevation is 734 meters (Mapcarta, 2022 ). The geology of Manoti is just as that of Gokwe region and characterized by sedimentary rocks and sediments (Potgiete, 2017). Manoti falls under Agro-ecological region 4 and this region is defined by a semi-arid climate with an annual rainfall of 250–350 mm, so the area relies mainly on groundwater. The rainy season usually occurs from November to April, while dry season takes place from May to October, with intense precipitation and humidity from December to March. This particular climate is defined by gentle to chilly winters and warm summers. During the winter months, Gokwe South Manoti experiences average temperatures of approximately 20 degrees Celsius, while in the summer months, the temperatures can reach highs of about 30–40 degrees Celsius (Jaison et al., 2023 ). Some examples of typical trees are baobab, mopane, and acacia. The region contains a combination of sandy and clay soils. Socio-economic geography of the area The Gokwe south district, including the Manoti area, is primarily managed by the Gokwe rural development council with a population of 317 554 (ZimStat, 2022 ). Given the nature of Gokwe South District people rely on agriculture, mainly subsistence farming being the primary economic activity (Jaison et al., 2023 ). Local farmers in Manoti cultivate crops such as cotton, maize, sorghum, millet and groundnuts for sustenance and sale. Livestock rearing of cattle, goats and chickens is also common for sustenance and for sale (Muchazondida and Mukorera, 2022 ). Local people who are situated near boreholes can grow vegetables for sale basing on the fact that the area experiences dry season from May to October. The settlements are clearly agricultural-based, meaning they are situated near fertile land suitable for cultivation, henceforth water is the main vital resource. Manoti has a business center called Manoti business center which acts as a commercial hub and water collection point where locals, traders and retailers operate (Nyota, 2015 ). That business center is also encompassed with community information center that offers services such internet, typing, printing, photocopying, free computer lessons, postal and banking services (Ncube, 2018). Manoti business center is where public gatherings for example, the Presidential Rural Horticulture Initiative was introduced in the year 2021. Manoti was therefore set up for an economic boom after the Presidential Rural Horticulture Transformation Program was launched, where the region will gain from government backing and boreholes provided by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Chitumba, 2021 ). Figure 1.1 will showcase the study area map of Manoti, Ward 1 of Gokwe South District in relation to the description of study area above. Research design This study utilized a descriptive research design to develop an accident tracking and management framework for borehole drilling sites operated by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) in Manoti, ward 1, of Gokwe South District. To ensure a strong and thorough research approach, this study employed both quantitative and qualitative methods through triangulation (Donkoh and Mensah, 2023 ). Qualitative methods used included open ended questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, field observations as well as ZINWA safety leading and lagging indicators documented data. Quantitative methods included closed ended questionnaires. Target population The target population of this study comprised 142 general employees who recently and who were currently drilling boreholes in Manoti, ward 1, of Gokwe South District. Basing on the information provided by the ZINWA Irrigation and Rural development department, out of 142 general employees 42 were drill operators, 35 were drill assistances, 35 represented groundwater installation assistances and 30 were site supervisors. The research targeted 7 drilling rigs in relation to these general employees. The target population also included of 6 key informants because of their holistic understanding of borehole drilling operations. These key informants were Safety, Health and Environmental officer, Groundwater Manager, Human Capital Administration Manager, Director of Irrigation and Rural development and National Social Security Authority Inspectorate. Sample size and determination The sample size was derived from a population of 142 targeted employees using Yamane (1967) formula. The formula below used guaranteed the researcher 95% confidence level and 5% margin of error. Formula= \(\:\text{n}=\frac{\text{N}}{1+\text{N}\left(\text{e}\right)²}\) Whereas n = Sample size. N = Population Size e = error of margin Using this formula , the sample size for each subgroup was calculated separately to ensure adequate representation. This was done to avoid overestimating or underestimating the participants of each group. The weight of each group was calculated to have a factual sample size for each group as illustrated by the Table 1 . Table 1 Sample sizes for each group category Group Category Total number of Group participants Sample size for each cluster after using Yamane Statistical Formula \(\:\mathbf{n}=\frac{\mathbf{N}}{1+\mathbf{N}\left(\mathbf{e}\right)²}\) Drill operators 42 38 Drill assistances 35 32 Groundwater installation assistances 35 32 Operational site supervisors 30 28 Total participants 130 Sampling techniques Simple random sampling technique was used for questionnaire distribution. As previously stated in the target population, this study included 42 drill operators, 30 site supervisors, 35 ground water installation assistances, 35 drill assistances. Each employee representing the above-mentioned groups was assigned a number in their respective groups and then a random number generator was used to select the required number of participants for each group as required by the table 1.1. This method was conducted using Microsoft excel, using Microsoft excel the “RAND ()” function was employed to generate random numbers. Therefore, the final questionnaire respondance representing each group were 38 drill operators, 32 drill assistances, 32 groundwater installation assistances and 28 site supervisors. Purposive sampling was used to select key informants for interviews aforementioned before in target population. These individuals were chosen due to their extensive knowledge and experience with borehole drilling site accidents, making them the most relevant sources of information for developing an accident tracking and management framework for Gokwe South District, specifically in Manoti. Data collection Methods Questionnaire survey A carefully crafted survey containing a mix of closed and open-ended format questions, was used for data collection. The health, safety and environmental officer gave borehole drilling employee’s prior notice of the questionnaires two weeks before they were given out. Participants were then asked to give their informed consent by indicating agreement through a checkbox before a survey was started, after the researcher gave a clear verbal and written introduction of the researchers, the institution the researchers are coming from, explanations of the study purpose and explanations of questionnaire questions. Semi-structured interviews In relation to ZINWA senior management: Safety, Health and Environmental officer, Groundwater Manager, Human Capital Administration Manager, Director of Irrigation and Rural development, interviews were conducted after seeking consent from ZINWA Human Capital and Administration manager, 2 weeks before they were conducted. This was after the researchers came to a conclusion and agreed to inform ZINWA Human resources manager about the study objectives and purpose. The researcher also asked consent to interview the NASSA Inspectorate, by providing a written introduction of the researchers, the institution the researchers are coming from, study purpose and objectives, two weeks before an interview was conducted. Field observations This study utilized direct, naturalistic field observation. The researchers directly watched drilling operations and safety practices at active borehole sites for about 1 week. Detailed handwritten notes and photographs systematically documenting safety practices, safety culture, and accident response practices were collected at sites using a structured observation checklist. The researchers strived to minimize interference with normal operations. Secondary data The research used secondary data sources like academic journals, articles, research reports, newspapers and institutional reports to inform the development of an enhanced accident tracking and management framework for borehole drilling site. These secondary data sources were extracted from Midlands State University Library, Google scholar, Scopus, Research gate and other relevant academic websites. The researchers also used qualitative data from safety leading and lagging indicators documented by ZINWA Safety, health and environmental management department. ZINWA’s existing leading and lagging safety indicators enabled comprehensive insights into accident antecedents, trends, frequencies, and characteristics to inform optimal tracking and prevention approaches in the enhanced management framework. Data analysis and Presentation Quantitative Data Analysis and Presentation Quantitative data preparation from closed ended questions formats was checked, coded, categorized, standardized, and inputted into Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet. Quantitative Data entered into a Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet was then analysed in relation to the study objectives. The findings from quantitative data analysis were presented using diagrams, pie charts, tables, figures and graphs to communicate the research results concisely and persuasively, ensuring a full understanding of the research findings and adding credibility to the study. Qualitative Data Analysis and Presentation The researchers used content analysis to analyse qualitative data from open-ended questionnaire questions, structured interviews, secondary sources, ZINWA safety leading and lagging indicators documents, and field observations. Data from open ended questions, secondary sources, ZINWA written documents, semi-structured interviews and field observations was prepared by means of transcription, verification, and cleaning. The researchers then familiarized with data, through iterative reading of textual data. The researchers identified and labelled relevant themes, patterns, categories within the data and assigned preliminary codes to these themes, patterns and categories using coding schemes developed based on the research objectives. Coded data was grouped into broader categories and sub categories. The researchers reviewed and refined the themes to ensure that they are responsive to research aims and objectives. Lastly the researchers created a written document encompassing all the findings and conclusions. The conclusions from qualitative data analysis were presented using diagrams to demonstrate patterns, relationships and themes within data. Bar charts or pie charts were employed to show frequency of themes or categories in relation to qualitative data sets. Ethical considerations The permission and endorsement to carry out this research study was guaranteed by Midlands State University through the provision of letter of authorization. The official authorization to carry this research in Gokwe South District, specifically in Manoti was granted by Zimbabwe National Water Authority. The researchers clearly communicated study objectives, processes, institutional affiliations, and intended applications to create openness. All participants formally consented to interviews, questionnaires and data use after informing them of their voluntary involvement rights, risks/benefits, and study purposes in an understandable, non-coercive fashion. The researchers and the National Social Security Authority Inspectorate of Factories and Works signed a confidentiality letter provided by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority. Confidentiality letters alerting them about unethical issues were also given to all participants with key informants included for their signature. Results and discussions Response rate The researcher had a sample size of 130 workers under 4 distinct sub groups and out of this sample size, 125 workers managed to respond to the questionnaire, hence the response rate was 96%. The researcher had interviews in relation to 5 key informants as mentioned in research methodology and the researcher managed to conduct all interviews in relation to these interviewees. Table 2 Socio-demographic data of respondents Variable Description Frequency Percentage of respondents 1. Academic qualifications Total -Degree -National Certificates -A level -O level -Others (Primary level) 13 33 19 39 21 125 10.4 26.4 15.2 31.2 16.8 100 2. Employment status Total -Contract Worker -Permanent Worker 69 56 125 55.2 44.8 100 3. Working experience Total 2–4 years 5–15 years and above 69 56 125 55.2 44.8 100 Source: Field Data In accord to the questionnaire survey, 10.4% indicated tertiary education and 26.4% indicated national certificates through vocational trainings. Moreover, 15.2% attended A level, 31.2% attended O level and the remaining 16.8% indicated primary education. Most of the boreholes drilling employees at Zimbabwe National Water Authority borehole drilling sites in Manoti, ward 1 of Gokwe South District are on contract. This is because the organization is trying to meet the Presidential Borehole scheme target and the target is to drill 35000 boreholes encompassing villages by 2025, hence the ZINWA is hiring more employees to meet this target (Ncube, 2021 ). The organization is also trying to meet the Presidential Rural Horticulture Transformation Programme which needs more boreholes (Chitumba, 2021 ). Therefore, these workers on contracts have working experience ranging from 3–4 years which accounted for 55.2%. 55.2% of Zimbabwe National Water Authority borehole drilling employees operating in Manoti are on contract and 44.8% indicated working experience above 5 years as permanent workers. Current Accidents tracking and management strategies This section analysed current accidents tracking and management strategies that are being used by Zimbabwe National Water Authority to track and manage accidents at borehole drilling sites. Current accidents tracking strategies According to the questionnaire survey, 44% were aware of the current accidents tracking strategies and the majorities which comprise 56% were unaware of the current accidents tracking strategies at borehole drilling sites. The research findings from interview data indicated that, the varying level of awareness is being influenced by various factors such as academic qualifications, working experience and trainings. All this information is summarized by the Fig. 2 . Source: Field Data The 44% that is aware specified accident documented reports, accident documented investigation reports and accident risk registers as the current accidents tracking strategies. All this information is demonstrated by the Table 3 . Table 3 Current accident tracking strategies Variable Percentage of respondents Accident documented reports 93% Accident investigation documented reports 80% Accident risk registers 60% Source: Field Data In relation to Table 3 , 93% from the questionnaire survey specified accident documented reports, 80% indicated accident documented investigation reports and 60% specified accident risk registers as the current accidents tracking strategies. Based on the administered questionnaires, accident document reports, accident documented investigation reports and incident risk registers helps in identification and tracking of the accidents main causes which then shapes the safety protocols and instructions at borehole drilling sites. 44% in Fig. 2 , are aware because of working experience, strong academic background and continuous safety trainings especially site supervisors. However, according to the Fig. 2 , the larger percent which is 56% is unaware because of absence of continuous safety trainings. Safety, Health and Environmental officer, explained that “…the word tracking itself is not simple, so of course some employees will not be aware of current accidents tracking strategies given the case of being unaware of the word tracking…… ” . According to the questionnaire survey, borehole drilling employees receive safety trainings once a year and some will never receive them because of unceasing operations to meet the Authority certain tasks. Site supervisors specified that, continuous trainings are needed to equip borehole drilling workforce with the extensive knowledge in relation to accidents tracking strategies. Basing on the administered questionnaires, the results indicated that 56% of borehole drilling workforce is also unaware of current accidents tracking strategies because of varying levels in academic qualifications. Most of the safety issues are taught at tertiary and vocational trainings institutes depending on programs individuals are taking at both tertiary and vocational training institutes. However, according to socio-demographic data of this research only 36.8% all together, indicated degrees and national certificates according to Table 2 . Mostly, those who reported degrees and national certificates are permanent workers, of which the large population of borehole drilling employees are contract workers, hence higher knowledge gap and thus another reason for 56% being unaware. SHE officer explicated that, there are certain employees especially permanent employees who might not have strong academic background but they are fully aware of current accidents tracking strategies because of working experience. The SHE officer also added that working experience had exposed some employees to the existing accident tracking strategies for example safety logbooks, that’s the reason for them to be fully aware of the current accidents tracking strategies. However, according to Table 2 , most of the borehole drilling employees are contract workers, therefore they do not have knowledge about accidents tracking strategies starting with existing ones due to lack of working experience and continuous trainings. Safety, health and environmental officer mentioned the use of safety lagging indicator (Documented accident reports) as the current accident tracking strategy. Documented accident reports help to capture the accidents root causes which then initiate the formulation of preventive measures. SHE officer also mentioned the use of accident risk registers in accident tracking, according to this site foreman accidents risk registers are used to track the main risk factors that have resulted in accident occurrence. NASSA inspectorate mentioned the follow ups on accident investigation reports as a way that is being used by ZINWA to track the accident root causes at borehole drilling sites. ZINWA Groundwater manager, Human Capital Manager and Director of irrigation and rural development indicated same accidents tracking strategies that were indicated by the ZINWA SHE officer and NASSA inspectorate. Accident and near misses documented reports to identify accidents root causes and accidents trends is also being used at BlueSea borehole drilling company as a way to manage occupational hazards. 11% specified accident reporting as a way to manage occupational hazards at borehole drilling sites (Muringaniza et al., 2024 ). However, ZINWA is using documented accident reports not only to manage hazards that results in accidents at borehole drilling sites, but to track accidents root causes as well. Current management strategies In accord to the questionnaire survey, safety protocols at borehole drilling sites formulated by the Safety, health and Environmental department in collaboration with Groundwater department are currently being used to manage accidents at borehole drilling sites. According to the questionnaire survey, 100% specified that safety protocols and instructions such as proper wearing of PPE/C and no smoking are being used at borehole drilling sites to manage accidents. Also, 93% mentioned the use of toolbox talks as a way to proactively manage hazards and risks encountered at borehole drilling sites. Hazard identification and risk assessment is also another current accident management strategy that is being used by ZINWA to shape the safety protocols and instructions at borehole drilling sites mentioned as by 66%. Moreover, 20% of employees also indicated the provision of PPE/C as a way to manage accidents at borehole drilling sites and all this information is summarized by the Fig. 3 . Basing on the interview data, reports reviews and follow ups were also pin pointed as ways to manage accidents at borehole drilling sites. Basing on the interview data, legal frameworks are being used to shape the safety protocols and instructions that were indicated by all general employees (100%). Source: Field Data Safety protocols/ Instructions Conferring to Fig. 3 , 100% from questionnaire survey indicated the use of safety protocols and instructions as a way that is being used by ZINWA to manage workplace hazards and risks factors that contributes to accident occurrences. Site supervisors explained that there are safety protocols at ZINWA borehole drilling sites that employees are obliged to for accident management and reduction. ZINWA employees in Manoti mentioned proper wearing of PPE/C such as safety glasses, goggles, helmets and high visibility clothing as a way to manage accidents that results from hazards at borehole drilling sites. For example, safety gloves help to safeguard employees from highly flammable liquids that are used at borehole drilling sites preventing burns and fire incidents. In accord to the questionnaire survey, proper lifting techniques are also included in ZINWA safety protocols at borehole drilling sites. Borehole drilling operations involves lifting of borehole drilling rods and without proper lifting techniques there will be high rate of accidents resulting from slips, trips and falls. ZINWA employees in Manoti also mentioned that there are safety instructions to reduce the accident occurrence at borehole drilling sites, the safety instructions include no smoking and no smoking reduces the fire incidents at borehole drilling sites. Therefore, safety protocols and instructions combined are being used to manage accidents at borehole drilling sites. Site foremen specified that safety protocols and instructions being used at borehole drilling sites are shaped by ZINWA safety policy, safety management system and SHE legal frameworks. Toolbox talks Bestowing to Fig. 3 , 93% from questionnaire survey have indicated the use of toolbox talks, before, after and during water pump installations and borehole drilling operations depending on circumstances. Toolbox talks ensure that employees are well equipped with the knowledge in relation to hazards and risks that are encountered at borehole drilling sites as indicated by the site supervisors. Having knowledge of the hazards and risks increase situational awareness during water pump installation and borehole drilling operations thereby ensuring safe work practices which in turn ultimately reduces accidents encountered at borehole drilling sites as indicated by the SHE officer. Toolbox talks are also being used by other borehole drilling companies for example, 12% of BlueSea borehole drilling employees mentioned the use of toolbox talks before drilling to effectively manage hazards at the company (Muringaniza et al., 2024 ). Hazard identification and risk assessment As indicated Fig. 3 , 66% from questionnaire survey mentioned the use of hazard identification and risk assessment as a way to proactively manage accidents at borehole drilling sites specifically in Manoti. The reason behind the 66% is because most of the employees are unaware of what HIRA is due to various factors such as working experience and academic qualifications. Most of the employees who highlighted hazard identification and risk assessment are site supervisors because there are exposed to continuous safety trainings. Continuous Safety trainings enables site supervisors to understand the hazards and risks usually encountered at borehole drilling sites. The other employees who mentioned the use of hazard identification and risk assessment are employees with strong academic background and working experience above 5 years. In accord to the administered questionnaire, hazard identification is being used to identify hazards and risk assessment are used to assess the risk factors that results from exposure to such hazards for example accidents. Hazard identification and risk assessment ensures proactive and effective management of accidents through the formulation of new safety protocols and instructions that will complement the existing ones. All this information was validated by the interview data. Safety, Health and environmental officer expound that hazard identification and risk assessments are being done through safety surveys. SHE officer also indicate that, hazard identification and risk assessment process initiates the formulation of robust safety protocols and instructions that can effectively manage different types of accidents at borehole drilling sites. Risk assessments and safety trainings to manage borehole drilling hazards are also being used by other borehole drilling companies for example, 13% of BlueSea borehole drilling company employees, in Harare District indicated that risk assessments are used to manage occupational hazards (Muringaniza et al., 2024 ). Also, 27% of BlueSea borehole drilling company also mentioned the use of trainings on standard work procedures. According to this study, these trainings are important as they can assist in identification of potential risks (Shabani et al., 2023 a, b, c, d). Personal Protective Equipment/Clothing In accord to questionnaire survey, 20% mentioned provision of Personal Protective Equipment/Clothing as a way that is being used by Zimbabwe National Water Authority to manage occupational hazards mentioned that results in accident occurrences. The main reason behind the 20% is that most of the employees mentioned inequitable distribution and ineffective provision of PPE/C as shown in Fig. 3 . Personal protective equipment and clothing mentioned include high visibility clothing, safety glasses, safety shoes, ear plugs, respiratory masks, work suits, safety gloves and hard hats. In accordance to that 20% from the questionnaire survey, slips, trips and falls and equipment related accidents such as falling of objects are being managed by safety shoes and hard hats. According to the questionnaire respondents, safety glasses provided by ZINWA are also safeguarding employees from flying debris, dust and chemicals. Earplugs mentioned above also safeguard employees from loud noises generated by drillings rigs and generators. Bestowing to the questionnaire survey, PPE such as safety gloves safeguard employees from physical contact with toxic substances and fluids used during borehole drilling operations. Rendering to the questionnaire survey, avoidance of physical contact with toxic substances helps to safeguard employees from skin irritations and severity of physical burns in case of fire incidents. Conferring to the questionnaire survey, respiratory masks safeguards employees from dust, fumes, smokes and other airborne contaminants. With regards to the questionnaire survey, high visibility clothing such as reflective vests provided by ZINWA is safeguarding employees from being hit by near moving machines in low-light conditions. ZINWA groundwater manager, specified that “…provision of PPE/Clothing boost staff morale which in turns increases safety culture, ultimately reducing accidents at borehole drilling sites as an end result... ” The use of Personal protective equipment manage occupational hazards was also demonstrated in BlueSea borehole drilling company as 19% of the employees specified that helmets, safety glasses, gloves, ear plugs are being used to safeguard employees from occupational hazards (Muringaniza et al., 2024 ) Reports reviews and follow ups Interview data for this research indicated that ZINWA reports reviews and follow ups as methods to effectively manage hazards and risk factors contributing to accident occurrence. According to the interview data, reports review and follows up enables the identification of accident root causes, accidents patterns and trends. In accordance with the information provided by the interview data, accidents reports, near miss incident reports, safety reports, safety survey and inspections reports, HIRA reports and safety audits reports are reviewed in order to have a comprehensive overview of the causes of accidents/incidents at borehole drilling sites of Manoti. Full knowledge of accident root causes, patterns and trends enables the management of hazards and risks that exposes employees to certain accidents and incidents through the formulation of effective safety operational procedures, protocols and standards. Safety, health and environmental officer mentioned that it is these reports reviews and follow ups that profiles the safety protocols and instructions that is being used at borehole drilling sites. Legal frameworks According to interview data, the legal frameworks highlighted in this paragraph are not specifically used to manage accidents at ZINWA borehole drilling sites. However, they are used to develop the safety protocols and instructions that guide the management of ZINWA borehole drillings operations. The use of legal frameworks to manage borehole drilling hazards and risks that contributes to accident occurrence were mentioned by NASSA inspectorate, ZINWA Safety, Health and Environmental officer and ZINWA Human Capital Administration Manager. NASSA inspectorate indicated that Factories and Works Act (20 of 1948) is being used to regulate the machinery conditions and usage for instance borehole drilling rigs conditions and their usage. Also, NASSA inspectorate explained that, Factories and works is encompassed with regulations to ensure employees safety and overall wellness. The inspectorate also mentioned the use of RGN 263 section 8 that safeguard employees from falls and foot injuries due to provision of effective safety shoes. Borehole drilling operations are coupled with machinery and equipment usage; such as drilling rods and hammers and without steel toed footwear, there will be serious foot injuries. Thus, NASSA inspectorate also mentioned that borehole drilling crews, though to a lesser extent have first aid boxes encompassed with all requisite dressings, as per general regulations Section 10 (5). First aid box ensure that employees physical injuries and chemical burns are addressed quickly before they became serious injuries. Though not currently practiced, NASSA inspectorate also stated that in order to manage fire incidents at borehole drilling sites, borehole drilling employees must be given firefighting equipment in accordance with RGN 262 section 10. Fire incidents are encountered at borehole drilling sites due electrical failures, equipment malfunctions and use of highly flammable fluids. However, NASSA inspectorate also stated the use of RGN 302 of 1976 for machinery regulations and this RGN safeguard employees from using poorly serviced rig machines. NASSA inspectorate also mentioned the use of National Social Security Authority (Accident Prevention and Workers Compensation Scheme) Notice, SI 68 0f 1990 at ZINWA borehole drilling sites to compensate injured workers as a result of work induced accidents. NASSA inspectorate pointed out that SI 68 of 1990 is encompassed with duties for employers, supervisors, employees and manufacturers to prevent workplace accidents. ZINWA safety, health and environmental officer agreed to the use of regulations and frameworks mentioned above by the NASSA inspectorate. Borehole drilling operations generates high amounts dust that results in respiratory issues and accidents. Therefore, ZINWA safety, health and environmental officer mentioned Pneumoconiosis Act (Chap. 15:08) as an act that is being used to manage accidents and illnesses that results from working in dusty conditions. Borehole drilling operations are encompassed with verbal abuse, discrimination and bullying which escalates accident rates at borehole drilling sites due to absence of safety culture. Therefore, ZINWA Human Capital and administration manager mentioned the use of Labour Act (Chap. 28:01) and constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment No. 20 of 2013 section 65. According to ZINWA HCA manager, Labor Act and Constitution of Zimbabwe ensure that safe labour practices, fair, equitable and satisfactory conditions of work. NASSA noted that, “…It is the current accidents management strategies that ensure people are aware of the current accidents tracking strategies. Ineffective accident management strategies such lack of continuous safety trainings results in poor awareness of accidents tracking strategies. ZINWA current accidents management strategies focus more on training site supervisors as borehole drilling employees are receiving safety trainings once or twice a year, that’s the reason for low awareness of current accidents tracking strategies. However, if ZINWA starts to train and to offer continuous safety trainings to borehole drilling employees, those employees will start to be aware of the essentiality of accident risk registers and how they can be used to track accidents. Continuous safety trainings will enlighten borehole drilling employees about the meaning of the phrase “accident tracking” and the significance of accidents tracking strategies. Trainings will also ensure that employees are aware of the significance of accident investigation and accident investigation reports and how those reports can aid in identifying the accidents trends which is crucial for accidents tracking…” Effectiveness of Current Accidents Tracking and Management Strategies. In accord to the questionnaire survey, 70.40% indicated that the current accidents tracking and management strategies used are not effective at all. Also, 20% specified that these current accidents tracking and management strategies are effective enough since they ensure accident reporting which in turn assist in managing the hazards and risks that borehole drilling employee’s face at borehole drilling sites. Moreover, 8% showed that the current accidents tracking and management strategies used are moderately effective and only 1.60% specified that these current accidents tracking and management strategies used are very effective. Figure 4 will summarize the aforementioned information Source: Field Data In regard to the questionnaire survey, 70.40% are not satisfied with the current accidents tracking and management strategies as these strategies are poorly functional in addressing the hazards and risks factors that contributes to accident occurrences at borehole drilling sites as shown in Fig. 4 . This is because these current accidents tracking and management strategies does not incorporate continuous safety trainings for drilling workforce as trainings are conducted yearly and some have never received them at all. In regards to the questionnaire survey, these current accidents tracking and management strategies are not effective because of borehole drilling accidents which keeps occurring at a high rate because of poor accidents investigations, poor medical examinations to check the employee overall fitness and health in relation to the execution of borehole tasks. In accord to the questionnaire survey, accidents investigations that are conducted are not identifying the accident root causes, because same accidents are reoccurring regardless of these investigations. In regard to the questionnaire survey, these current management strategies do not fully review the PPE/C that is given employees at borehole drilling sites as there is absence, inequitable distribution and effective provision of PPE/C. Rendering to the questionnaire survey, some incidents and accidents take time to be reported to the head office for compensations. The idea that these accident tracking and management strategies are not effective enough was further explained by NASSA inspectorate. NASSA inspectorate said the borehole drilling accidents are continuously increasing in Manoti because of absence of safety standards like ISO 45001, poor accidents investigations, poor safety surveys and inspections to effectively note down the hazards and risk factors contributing to accident occurrence. As indicated by Fig. 4 , 20% from questionnaire survey mentioned that these current methods for accident tracking and management are effective because at least accidents are reported and employees who are involved in such accidents receive compensations from NASSA. Conferring to the Fig. 4 , 8% said these methods used to track and manage accidents are moderately effective because at least they train site supervisors as site supervisors are the focal individuals that must be equipped with safety knowledge needed to enhance their site supervision and monitoring at borehole drilling sites. According to the Fig. 4 , 1.60% of questionnaire respondents actually mentioned that, these current accidents tracking and management strategies are very effective because they ensure that employees receive compensations form NASSA after they are injured or involved in an accident during water pump installation or borehole drilling operations. An accident tracking and management framework at borehole drilling sites of Zimbabwe National Water Authority in Manoti ward 1 of Gokwe South District. This section developed a framework highlighted in Fig. 5 with 6 stages. The first stage is the plan stage, followed by the Do stage; check stage is the third stage of this framework, which is then followed by the Act stage. All these stages lead to a final output and the final output is reduction in accident rates at ZINWA borehole drilling sites, in Manoti, of Gokwe South District. The accident tracking and management framework formulated has been profiled using ZINWA existing safety leading and lagging indicators highlighted in the research methodology. This accident tracking and management framework was also profiled using the Plan, Do, Check and Act, the Deming cycle introduced by Walter Shewhart 1939 and later modified by W. Edwards Deming. However, the framework is encompassed with some new features to ensure holistic accident management as well as accident tracking. The framework was also profiled using the research objectives, research findings from the questionnaire survey, the overviews, perceptions and recommendations from interviews. The framework in Fig. 4.10 is characterized by 6 stages, with the final output being the accident rates reduction. On the PLAN stage, the idea is to enhance the already existing safety policy and management system to ensure effective accidents tracking and management strategies. This safety management system can be enhanced by the means of adding new features such as the Hierarchy of control. Hierarchy of control ensures that occupational hazards and risks factors are managed before resulting into an accident. The Hierarchy of control involves 6 stages: Stage 1: elimination of the hazard that means totally removing the hazard, Stage 2: substitution of the hazard, that means to use a safer alternative to the font of the hazard, Stage 3: Isolation, meaning isolating people from the hazard. Stage 4: Engineering controls for instance using mechanized rigs machines, Stage 5: Administrative controls, meaning to formulate policies that safeguard employees from being exposed to occupational hazards and risks factors that contributes to accident occurrence at borehole drilling sites. Stage 6: which is the least preferred involves provision of effective PPE/C such as safety gloves to safeguard employees from the chemical burns and skin exposure to highly flammable fluids used at borehole drilling sites. The plan stage, also involved the addition of the new safety approaches such as Zero harm safety approach into safety management system, because it will increase safety culture at borehole drilling sites, which in turn ultimately ensures effective accident management strategies and effective accidents tracking procedures. Safety standards such as ISO 45001 can also enhance the safety management system which in turn results in effective accident tracking and management. In order to identify the accident root causes and trends which is crucial for accident tracking and management, incident analysis, root causes analysis such as the 5 why technique, hazan, hazid and hazop must be added into the safety management system. In addition to the above paragraph, the researcher added new features to the already existing safety lagging and leading indicators that was being used by ZINWA to track and manage accidents at borehole drilling sites in Manoti. The researcher added, Workplace safety risks, hazards and accident registers. ZINWA had one risk register that caters for hazards, risks and accidents. However, having a register for workplace risks, hazards and accidents separately enables the authority to comprehensively capture near miss incidents, injury and accidents data records and it also enables the Authority to comprehensively record all the hazards contributing to accident occurrence. The risk registers formulated by the researcher enables the authority to document fatality rates, incident rates and accident rates in conjunction with causes for such rates, which in turn enables site supervisor, employees and safety and environmental officer to analyze trends and trends analysis is crucial for accident tracking. Emergency preparedness plans, medical examinations, hazard identification and risk assessments as well as provision of effective Personal protective equipment were added to shape the already existing safety leading indicators used by ZINWA. Emergency preparedness plans initiates the formulation of effective accident management strategies that will effectively track accidents trends as well, hazard identification and risk assessment enable documentation of hazards and risks factors contributing to accident occurrence, those documented reports will be used to track the main hazards and risks factors contributing to accident occurrence. Lastly on the planning stage, in order to effectively track and manage accidents at borehole drilling sites of Manoti, the safety protocols or procedures in place must be in line with Legal frameworks and standards for safety management such as Factories and Works Act (20 of 1948) and its regulations. The next stage in relation to the above framework is the DO stage and this stage puts those plans mentioned above into actions. Recently, ZINWA is using Indian drilling rigs which require manual handling, hence on this do stage, the researcher proposed the procurement and the use of mechanized rig machines encompassed with down hole cameras. Additionally, such mechanized rigs enable real time sensor measurements and event tracking analysis and such measurements and analysis enables the tracking of accidents root causes. Use of mechanized rig machines also helps to manage musculoskeletal disorders related accidents which are triggered by the use of non-mechanized rig machines that requires manual lifting of drilling rods. On this do stage, in order to ensure that those plans formulated above are put into place and are functional at borehole drilling sites: safety surveys, inspections, audits, toolbox/safety talks and trainings must be conducted. Moreover, trainings coupled with safety audits enables employees to understand on how to do incident analysis and accident root cause analysis for accident tracking using the Fault tree analysis and the 5 why technique. Safety trainings will also enlighten employees on how to apply hazan, hazid and hazop and event tree analysis to effectively track the hazards that have resulted into accidents. The CHECK stage is the third stage of this framework. On this stage 3 major things which are being focused on are reports review, drilling rigs conditions reviews and the review of the functionality as well as the competence of safety operational procedures and protocols at borehole drilling sites. Reports reviews enables accident tracking by following the trends and patterns of incidents and accidents in documented reports. Reviewing borehole drilling rigs conditions is crucial as it enables servicing of borehole drilling rigs, ultimately reducing exposure of employees to accidents being caused by operating poorly serviced rig machines. Reviewing the functionality of safety operational procedures and protocols allows for the identification of loopholes in relation to accidents tracking and management strategies which then initiates the site supervisors, employees and the senior management to proceed to the next stage of this framework, the Act stage. The ACT stage involves procedures that evaluate the functionality and the effectiveness of the plans, the actions and reviews that are in place to track and manage accidents at borehole drilling sites. The act stage involves regular monitoring to ensure compliance with the safety operational procedures and instructions; it also involves constant monitoring to ensure that safety procedures and protocols in place are in line with the updated legal framework. This Act stage also involves continuous safety surveys, reviews, and inspections weekly. This stage also involves continuous documented reports reviews at weekly basis and it also involves regular monitoring and check-ups of borehole drilling rigs conditions. This stage will identify the functionality levels and the loopholes of this whole framework. All these stages if properly followed, the outcome will be enhanced safety culture at borehole drilling sites and enhanced safety culture ensures enhancement in accident tracking and management strategies which then results in final output ; that is reduction in accident rates while ensuring employee overall health wellness. Conclusion and recommendations Basing on the research findings, the study concludes that Zimbabwe National Water Authority borehole drilling sites in Manoti ward 1, of Gokwe South District experience a high accident rate. The study concludes that there is low level of awareness of the current accidents tracking strategies due to absence of continuous trainings. However, those who are fully aware of the current accidents tracking strategies specified accident reports, accident investigation reports and accident risk registers as the current accidents tracking strategies being used by ZINWA to track accidents at borehole drilling sites. Basing on the research findings, Safety protocols, toolbox talks, hazard identification and risk assessment, Personal Protective Equipment/Clothing are the main current strategies that ZINWA is using to manage accidents encountered at borehole drillings sites in Manoti. However, these current accidents tracking and management strategies are not fully effective to reduce the accident rates at borehole drilling sites. Therefore, the research has found that the rise in accidents rates at ZINWA borehole drilling sites in Manoti ward 1, of Gokwe South District, is attributed to incompetency of the current accident tracking and management strategies. Summing up the research, in order to manage shortcomings of the current accidents tracking and management strategies, this research developed an accident tracking and management framework with the final output of reduction in accidents rates encountered at borehole drilling sites in Manoti. Basing on the research findings, the following recommendations are proposed, NASSA inspectorate is recommended to conduct continuous safety inspections and audits to ensure compliance with legal frameworks. Director of irrigation and rural development is recommended to formulate effective safety protocols and operational standards alongside Ground water and SHE officer manager. Groundwater manager is recommended to ensure that the groundwater department conducts accident investigations alongside SHE department for holistic accident root causes tracking. Groundwater department must also come up with strategies to track and manage borehole drilling accidents since they continuously interact with the drilling workforce. Human Capital Administration Manager is recommended to ensure procurement of effective and ensure equitable distribution of Personal Protective Equipment/Clothing as per Safety, health and environmental department checklists. Human Capital Administration Manager must also continuously insist on wellness days as well as medical examinations in agreement with SHE department. Safety, health and environmental officer is recommended to conduct safety surveys, inspections, hazard identification and risk assessments and safety audits continuously and at regular intervals. This is critical as this can aid in formulation of effective accidents tracking and management strategies that can holistically manage hazards and risks factors contributing to accident occurrence at borehole drilling sites. In order to ensure and check if borehole drilling workforce is adhering to safety protocols and instructions that in turn reduces accidents at borehole drilling sites, the SHE officer is recommended to conduct safety surveys and inspections continuously and at regular intervals. Borehole drilling employees are recommended to adhere to safety protocols and instructions. 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05:24:18","extension":"xml","order_by":22,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":124938,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"rs81551630structuring.xml","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8155163/v1/896a270b7fc0e696e99146fa.xml"},{"id":96367124,"identity":"80600a7a-3165-4156-a5be-832df23fe0f2","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-20 10:12:12","extension":"html","order_by":23,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":137865,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"earlyproof.html","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8155163/v1/987a162e6df1899722bc217e.html"},{"id":96343872,"identity":"63d2c454-35d6-4470-af5a-6cd88b832d97","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-20 05:24:17","extension":"png","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":584371,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eGeographical Study Area map: \u003cstrong\u003eFigure 1:A map showing Manoti, Ward 1, of Gokwe South District\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSource: Authors\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8155163/v1/60be54776ef02a6f414f5c8f.png"},{"id":96367219,"identity":"88f882b3-ae5e-4fb3-b9e7-fe44940d9f4b","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-20 10:12:20","extension":"png","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":34639,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShowing current accident tracking strategies level of awareness\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: Field Data\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"2.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8155163/v1/32d516c0f43b62a4e5b99531.png"},{"id":96366878,"identity":"23ecbfac-f049-41ab-b0bb-278314277048","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-20 10:12:00","extension":"png","order_by":3,"title":"Figure 3","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":40128,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCurrent Accident Management Strategies at borehole drilling\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: Field Data\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"3.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8155163/v1/737a8f18610caed22739a705.png"},{"id":96343876,"identity":"3d953f4e-e910-4a39-a09b-8fd914077a38","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-20 05:24:17","extension":"png","order_by":4,"title":"Figure 4","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":41291,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eeffectiveness of current accidents tracking and management strategies\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: Field Data\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"4.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8155163/v1/bbe51046f0125e8d3114402a.png"},{"id":96366588,"identity":"e6815d8a-0428-4389-a210-c0900356ec3f","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-20 10:11:36","extension":"png","order_by":5,"title":"Figure 5","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":195470,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAn accident tracking and management framework at borehole drilling sites of Zimbabwe National Water Authority in Manoti ward 1, of Gokwe South District; Source: Authors\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"5.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8155163/v1/655054ba88912245105dec9b.png"},{"id":96369441,"identity":"a4d16d30-db17-46b3-8f3a-11c9cbf497ce","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-20 10:20:54","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":1922670,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8155163/v1/cd1bbbb8-67c7-4e11-b386-d8f72f7d6677.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"The authors declare no competing interests.","formattedTitle":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDeveloping an Accident Tracking and Management Framework at Borehole Drilling Sites of Zimbabwe National Water Authority in Gokwe South District of Midlands Province, Zimbabwe\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","fulltext":[{"header":"Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eBorehole drilling is a widespread practice that relies on groundwater resources for sustenance exemplified by 2.5\u0026nbsp;billion people who depend solely on groundwater resources for their daily living (Gronwall and Danert, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Accidents in borehole water drilling operations are inevitable (Hafezi, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e; Sumukwo and Nandwa, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR39\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). However, there are numerous strategies in place that are used to track and manage borehole accidents at borehole sites (Li et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Despite numerous strategies to track and manage accidents at borehole sites, accidents at borehole drilling sites are still occurring at a high rate, indicating the validity of undertaking this study which aims to develop an accident tracking and management framework for accident rates reduction at borehole sites (Skogdalen et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR38\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2011\u003c/span\u003e; Abdali et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e and Elrayah, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe strategies used to track and manage accidents include, utilization of advanced borehole cameras by developed countries to monitor drilling operations in real-time, analyzing post-operation data, maintaining equipment, and tracing the underlying causes of accidents, thus accident tracking (Deng et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e; Pavicic, 2021). Developed countries like Norway have well-established regulatory systems for borehole drilling (Dudu et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). These well-established regulatory systems are used to track and manage borehole accidents. Upper middle economy countries like China are leading manufactures in borehole water drilling rigs (Wang et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR43\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e; Wang et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR44\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Hence, they use advanced borehole drilling rigs such as Atlas Copco drill rigs which does not require manual handling (Morton, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e; Talalay, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR41\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). The use of automated and advanced borehole drilling rigs which does not require a lot of manual handling is practical way of managing borehole accidents (Alhammadi et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2025\u003c/span\u003e; Dragomir et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2025\u003c/span\u003e). However, International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC, 2023) released its quarterly summary report of occupational incidents for drill contractors operating worldwide, with 284 total recordable incidents, 77 total lost time incidents and 2 fatalities. Therefore, despite developed countries and upper middle-income countries having all these effective accidents tracking and management strategies, the need to develop an accident tracking and management framework specifically at borehole drilling sites is still valid to reduce all these incidents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn Africa, the tracking and management of accidents for some countries are still dependent on a logbook and accident report system dating back to the 1800s (Parker, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e; Goswami et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Countries such as Malawi have established technical guidance and standard operating procedures for borehole drilling safety, thus how they manage borehole accidents (Danert, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Countries such as Kenya are using advanced technologies such as Ground penetrating radar (GPR) and Electrical sensitivity imaging (ERI) to empower geologist to visualize subsurface structures. Kenya is also using automated drilling rigs that minimize human error and maximizes efficiency as advocated by the LinkedIn profile for Waterlift (2023) also cited in study by Nzau, (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). However, despite the use of advanced technologies and methods to visualize subsurface structures, accidents are still occurring during the drilling process, particularly in areas like Enugu, Nigeria, where a gas deposit was unexpectedly found during the digging of a borehole (Chioma, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). Southern African countries, such as South Africa, are also implementing project risk management strategies, such as risk assessments and evaluations, to effectively handle incidents at borehole drilling sites (Harding, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e; Muller, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2017\u003c/span\u003e and Mollo et al., 2022). Despite Africa using all these strategies to manage and track accidents, the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC, 2022) stated that Africa had 218 injuries and one death in relation to drilling activity in 2021. The data shows that fingers were the most common body parts affected by injuries, accounting for 24.77% of the reported cases (IADC, 2022).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eZimbabwe is using safety laws and regulations to manage risks and accidents at any workplace, borehole drilling included and the safety laws include the use of Factories and works Act (20 0f 1948) (Singo et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR37\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e cited Shabani et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR32\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). However, accidents and risks continue to upsurge despite these safety laws (Taderera \u003cspan citationid=\"CR40\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e, Jerie \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e, Shabani et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR32\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003ec). In Zimbabwe borehole drilling companies such as BlueSea drilling company are using safety trainings related to standard work procedures, provision of personal protective equipment, risk assessments, tool box talks to manage hazards and risks that results in accidents at borehole drilling sites. In the event of an accident, accident reports are used to develop remedial actions and trace the underlying causes of accidents, enabling accident tracking. However, employees at BlueSea borehole drilling company are still exposed to hazards and risk factors that contributes to accidents occurrence regardless of the measures that are currently in place (Muringaniza, et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). Thus, the need of a viable framework, hence the relevance of this research. Zimbabwe National Water Authority's (ZINWA) use accident risk registers, risk assessment reports, safety talks to manage accidents at borehole drilling sites and it also uses accident reports to track accident root causes in Manoti, Gokwe South District. However, according to Gozo (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e), Zimbabwe Water Project report stated that borehole operational accidents are inevitable.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eZimbabwe National Water Authority borehole drilling sites are characterized by little concentration on the risk factors and occupational hazards contributing to accident occurrence at borehole drilling sites. The occupational hazards include, physical, chemical, mechanical and ergonomic. These risk factors include operating poorly serviced machines, manual handling of the rigs and improper wearing of proper personal clothing (ZINWA SHE reports, 2024) and this culminated to an average of 4 people being injured per rig accident-causing muscular disorders, limb fractures and blunt force trauma (ZINWA SHE records 2024). There are slight enforcements and concentration on the current accident tracking and management strategies. These include hazard identification and risks assessment reports, accident reports, injuries or near miss reports, trainings, safety inspections, survey and audit reports at borehole drilling sites. This slight enforcement is hindering accurate data collection in relation to accidents at borehole drilling sites, which in turn is hindering continuous accident reporting, root cause identification, and implementation of corrective measures. Safety management systems, policies, accident management systems, safety standards such as (ISO 45001), hazard identification and risk assessments are not fully implemented, absorbed, captivated and esteemed by employees at borehole drilling sites. Accidents at borehole drilling sites are resulting in employees facing injury-related costs, stress, income loss and long term health and implications like induced hearing loss, respiratory illnesses and musculoskeletal related disorders. Employee families are also facing financial burdens like medical expenses, income loss, and social stigmatization. The aftermath effects of aforementioned implications are high absenteeism rates, employee retirement and cessation of Authority operations. The affected employees are also causing the Authority to face penalties from NASSA, resulting in negative publicity, tarnished Authority image, costly legal battles, compensation claims and insurance premiums. All these effects are affecting the workforce morale which in turn is reducing the production levels. It is against this background that this study seeks to (1) analyze the current accident management systems at borehole drilling sites in Manoti ward 1, of Gokwe South District and (2) develop an accident tracking and management framework at borehole drilling sites in Manoti, ward 1, of Gokwe South District. This accident tracking and management framework will be developed with a purpose of achieving mainly sustainable development goal 6.1 (universal access to water), as well as 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.A, 6.B, Presidential Borehole scheme target (to drill 35000 boreholes by 2025) and Presidential Rural Horticulture Transformation Programme.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Materials and Methods","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDescription of the Study area\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe research was based on the primary data collected in Gokwe south district Kana constituency, with Manoti as ward 1 being the specific study area (Muchazondida and Mukorera, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePhysical geography of the area\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGokwe is a district located in the north-western part of Zimbabwe Midlands province, (Tsvangirai, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR42\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). Gokwe has subdivisions which are Gokwe south, Gokwe north and Gokwe urban. The research will be based on the primary data collected in Gokwe south district Kana constituency, with Manoti as ward 1 being the specific study area (Muchazondida and Mukorera, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Manoti is situated close to the tribal area, Gokwe Tribal Trust Land and the locality is Madzivazvido. The surrounding areas of Manoti are, Chireya 26 km North, Bikeni Nyemba 40km North, Gorodema village 42 km East, Nenyuka 44km northwest and Chief Sai, 45km south. Landmarks include Nyarukwe hills, 8km northeast, and Sipani Sessami forest area, forest 11km east. The latitude of Manoti is 17˚ 46' \"0 and the longitude is 28 ̊ 31' 0\". The elevation is 734 meters (Mapcarta, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). The geology of Manoti is just as that of Gokwe region and characterized by sedimentary rocks and sediments (Potgiete, 2017). Manoti falls under Agro-ecological region 4 and this region is defined by a semi-arid climate with an annual rainfall of 250\u0026ndash;350 mm, so the area relies mainly on groundwater. The rainy season usually occurs from November to April, while dry season takes place from May to October, with intense precipitation and humidity from December to March. This particular climate is defined by gentle to chilly winters and warm summers. During the winter months, Gokwe South Manoti experiences average temperatures of approximately 20 degrees Celsius, while in the summer months, the temperatures can reach highs of about 30\u0026ndash;40 degrees Celsius (Jaison et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). Some examples of typical trees are baobab, mopane, and acacia. The region contains a combination of sandy and clay soils.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSocio-economic geography of the area\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Gokwe south district, including the Manoti area, is primarily managed by the Gokwe rural development council with a population of 317 554 (ZimStat, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR45\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Given the nature of Gokwe South District people rely on agriculture, mainly subsistence farming being the primary economic activity (Jaison et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). Local farmers in Manoti cultivate crops such as cotton, maize, sorghum, millet and groundnuts for sustenance and sale. Livestock rearing of cattle, goats and chickens is also common for sustenance and for sale (Muchazondida and Mukorera, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Local people who are situated near boreholes can grow vegetables for sale basing on the fact that the area experiences dry season from May to October. The settlements are clearly agricultural-based, meaning they are situated near fertile land suitable for cultivation, henceforth water is the main vital resource. Manoti has a business center called Manoti business center which acts as a commercial hub and water collection point where locals, traders and retailers operate (Nyota, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e). That business center is also encompassed with community information center that offers services such internet, typing, printing, photocopying, free computer lessons, postal and banking services (Ncube, 2018). Manoti business center is where public gatherings for example, the Presidential Rural Horticulture Initiative was introduced in the year 2021. Manoti was therefore set up for an economic boom after the Presidential Rural Horticulture Transformation Program was launched, where the region will gain from government backing and boreholes provided by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Chitumba, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Figure\u0026nbsp;1.1 will showcase the study area map of Manoti, Ward 1 of Gokwe South District in relation to the description of study area above.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eResearch design\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study utilized a descriptive research design to develop an accident tracking and management framework for borehole drilling sites operated by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) in Manoti, ward 1, of Gokwe South District. To ensure a strong and thorough research approach, this study employed both quantitative and qualitative methods through triangulation (Donkoh and Mensah, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). Qualitative methods used included open ended questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, field observations as well as ZINWA safety leading and lagging indicators documented data. Quantitative methods included closed ended questionnaires.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTarget population\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe target population of this study comprised 142 general employees who recently and who were currently drilling boreholes in Manoti, ward 1, of Gokwe South District. Basing on the information provided by the ZINWA Irrigation and Rural development department, out of 142 general employees 42 were drill operators, 35 were drill assistances, 35 represented groundwater installation assistances and 30 were site supervisors. The research targeted 7 drilling rigs in relation to these general employees. The target population also included of 6 key informants because of their holistic understanding of borehole drilling operations. These key informants were Safety, Health and Environmental officer, Groundwater Manager, Human Capital Administration Manager, Director of Irrigation and Rural development and National Social Security Authority Inspectorate.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSample size and determination\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sample size was derived from a population of 142 targeted employees using Yamane (1967) formula. The formula below used guaranteed the researcher 95% confidence level and 5% margin of error.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFormula= \u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\:\\text{n}=\\frac{\\text{N}}{1+\\text{N}\\left(\\text{e}\\right)\u0026sup2;}\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhereas n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Sample size.\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eN = Population Size\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec7\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003ee\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;error of margin\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eUsing this formula\u003c/b\u003e, the sample size for each subgroup was calculated separately to ensure adequate representation. This was done to avoid overestimating or underestimating the participants of each group. The weight of each group was calculated to have a factual sample size for each group as illustrated by the Table \u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSample sizes for each group category\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eGroup\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCategory\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eTotal number of Group participants\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSample size for each cluster after using Yamane Statistical Formula\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\:\\mathbf{n}=\\frac{\\mathbf{N}}{1+\\mathbf{N}\\left(\\mathbf{e}\\right)\u0026sup2;}\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDrill operators\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e42\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e38\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDrill assistances\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e35\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e32\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eGroundwater installation assistances\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e35\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e32\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eOperational site supervisors\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e28\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTotal participants 130\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSampling techniques\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eSimple random sampling technique was used for questionnaire distribution. As previously stated in the target population, this study included 42 drill operators, 30 site supervisors, 35 ground water installation assistances, 35 drill assistances. Each employee representing the above-mentioned groups was assigned a number in their respective groups and then a random number generator was used to select the required number of participants for each group as required by the table 1.1. This method was conducted using Microsoft excel, using Microsoft excel the \u0026ldquo;RAND ()\u0026rdquo; function was employed to generate random numbers. Therefore, the final questionnaire respondance representing each group were 38 drill operators, 32 drill assistances, 32 groundwater installation assistances and 28 site supervisors. Purposive sampling was used to select key informants for interviews aforementioned before in target population. These individuals were chosen due to their extensive knowledge and experience with borehole drilling site accidents, making them the most relevant sources of information for developing an accident tracking and management framework for Gokwe South District, specifically in Manoti.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eData collection Methods\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuestionnaire survey\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA carefully crafted survey containing a mix of closed and open-ended format questions, was used for data collection. The health, safety and environmental officer gave borehole drilling employee\u0026rsquo;s prior notice of the questionnaires two weeks before they were given out. Participants were then asked to give their informed consent by indicating agreement through a checkbox before a survey was started, after the researcher gave a clear verbal and written introduction of the researchers, the institution the researchers are coming from, explanations of the study purpose and explanations of questionnaire questions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSemi-structured interviews\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn relation to ZINWA senior management: Safety, Health and Environmental officer, Groundwater Manager, Human Capital Administration Manager, Director of Irrigation and Rural development, interviews were conducted after seeking consent from ZINWA Human Capital and Administration manager, 2 weeks before they were conducted. This was after the researchers came to a conclusion and agreed to inform ZINWA Human resources manager about the study objectives and purpose. The researcher also asked consent to interview the NASSA Inspectorate, by providing a written introduction of the researchers, the institution the researchers are coming from, study purpose and objectives, two weeks before an interview was conducted.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eField observations\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis study utilized direct, naturalistic field observation. The researchers directly watched drilling operations and safety practices at active borehole sites for about 1 week. Detailed handwritten notes and photographs systematically documenting safety practices, safety culture, and accident response practices were collected at sites using a structured observation checklist. The researchers strived to minimize interference with normal operations.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSecondary data\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe research used secondary data sources like academic journals, articles, research reports, newspapers and institutional reports to inform the development of an enhanced accident tracking and management framework for borehole drilling site. These secondary data sources were extracted from Midlands State University Library, Google scholar, Scopus, Research gate and other relevant academic websites. The researchers also used qualitative data from safety leading and lagging indicators documented by ZINWA Safety, health and environmental management department. ZINWA\u0026rsquo;s existing leading and lagging safety indicators enabled comprehensive insights into accident antecedents, trends, frequencies, and characteristics to inform optimal tracking and prevention approaches in the enhanced management framework.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eData analysis and Presentation\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuantitative Data Analysis and Presentation\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuantitative data preparation from closed ended questions formats was checked, coded, categorized, standardized, and inputted into Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet. Quantitative Data entered into a Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet was then analysed in relation to the study objectives. The findings from quantitative data analysis were presented using diagrams, pie charts, tables, figures and graphs to communicate the research results concisely and persuasively, ensuring a full understanding of the research findings and adding credibility to the study.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eQualitative Data Analysis and Presentation\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe researchers used content analysis to analyse qualitative data from open-ended questionnaire questions, structured interviews, secondary sources, ZINWA safety leading and lagging indicators documents, and field observations. Data from open ended questions, secondary sources, ZINWA written documents, semi-structured interviews and field observations was prepared by means of transcription, verification, and cleaning. The researchers then familiarized with data, through iterative reading of textual data. The researchers identified and labelled relevant themes, patterns, categories within the data and assigned preliminary codes to these themes, patterns and categories using coding schemes developed based on the research objectives. Coded data was grouped into broader categories and sub categories. The researchers reviewed and refined the themes to ensure that they are responsive to research aims and objectives. Lastly the researchers created a written document encompassing all the findings and conclusions. The conclusions from qualitative data analysis were presented using diagrams to demonstrate patterns, relationships and themes within data. Bar charts or pie charts were employed to show frequency of themes or categories in relation to qualitative data sets.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEthical considerations\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe permission and endorsement to carry out this research study was guaranteed by Midlands State University through the provision of letter of authorization. The official authorization to carry this research in Gokwe South District, specifically in Manoti was granted by Zimbabwe National Water Authority. The researchers clearly communicated study objectives, processes, institutional affiliations, and intended applications to create openness. All participants formally consented to interviews, questionnaires and data use after informing them of their voluntary involvement rights, risks/benefits, and study purposes in an understandable, non-coercive fashion. The researchers and the National Social Security Authority Inspectorate of Factories and Works signed a confidentiality letter provided by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority. Confidentiality letters alerting them about unethical issues were also given to all participants with key informants included for their signature.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Results and discussions","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec14\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eResponse rate\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe researcher had a sample size of 130 workers under 4 distinct sub groups and out of this sample size, 125 workers managed to respond to the questionnaire, hence the response rate was 96%. The researcher had interviews in relation to 5 key informants as mentioned in research methodology and the researcher managed to conduct all interviews in relation to these interviewees.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSocio-demographic data of respondents\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eVariable\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDescription\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eFrequency\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePercentage of respondents\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1. Academic qualifications\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTotal\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-Degree\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-National Certificates\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-A level\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-O level\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-Others (Primary level)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e33\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e19\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e39\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e125\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e26.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e15.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e31.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e16.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e100\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2. Employment status\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTotal\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-Contract Worker\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e-Permanent Worker\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e69\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e56\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e125\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e55.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e44.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e100\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3. Working experience\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTotal\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2\u0026ndash;4 years\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;15 years and above\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e69\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e56\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e125\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e55.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e44.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e100\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSource: Field Data\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn accord to the questionnaire survey, 10.4% indicated tertiary education and 26.4% indicated national certificates through vocational trainings. Moreover, 15.2% attended A level, 31.2% attended O level and the remaining 16.8% indicated primary education. Most of the boreholes drilling employees at Zimbabwe National Water Authority borehole drilling sites in Manoti, ward 1 of Gokwe South District are on contract. This is because the organization is trying to meet the Presidential Borehole scheme target and the target is to drill 35000 boreholes encompassing villages by 2025, hence the ZINWA is hiring more employees to meet this target (Ncube, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). The organization is also trying to meet the Presidential Rural Horticulture Transformation Programme which needs more boreholes (Chitumba, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Therefore, these workers on contracts have working experience ranging from 3\u0026ndash;4 years which accounted for 55.2%. 55.2% of Zimbabwe National Water Authority borehole drilling employees operating in Manoti are on contract and 44.8% indicated working experience above 5 years as permanent workers.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCurrent Accidents tracking and management strategies\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis section analysed current accidents tracking and management strategies that are being used by Zimbabwe National Water Authority to track and manage accidents at borehole drilling sites.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec17\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCurrent accidents tracking strategies\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccording to the questionnaire survey, 44% were aware of the current accidents tracking strategies and the majorities which comprise 56% were unaware of the current accidents tracking strategies at borehole drilling sites. The research findings from interview data indicated that, the varying level of awareness is being influenced by various factors such as academic qualifications, working experience and trainings. All this information is summarized by the Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec18\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSource: Field Data\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 44% that is aware specified accident documented reports, accident documented investigation reports and accident risk registers as the current accidents tracking strategies. All this information is demonstrated by the Table \u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCurrent accident tracking strategies\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"4\" nameend=\"c4\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eVariable\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePercentage of respondents\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"4\" nameend=\"c4\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccident documented reports\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e93%\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"4\" nameend=\"c4\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccident investigation documented reports\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e80%\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"4\" nameend=\"c4\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccident risk registers\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e60%\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"3\" nameend=\"c3\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: Field Data\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c5\" namest=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn relation to Table \u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, 93% from the questionnaire survey specified accident documented reports, 80% indicated accident documented investigation reports and 60% specified accident risk registers as the current accidents tracking strategies. Based on the administered questionnaires, accident document reports, accident documented investigation reports and incident risk registers helps in identification and tracking of the accidents main causes which then shapes the safety protocols and instructions at borehole drilling sites.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e44% in Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, are aware because of working experience, strong academic background and continuous safety trainings especially site supervisors. However, according to the Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, the larger percent which is 56% is unaware because of absence of continuous safety trainings. Safety, Health and Environmental officer, explained that \u0026ldquo;\u0026hellip;the word tracking itself is not simple, so of course some employees will not be aware of current accidents tracking strategies given the case of being unaware of the word tracking\u0026hellip;\u0026hellip;\u003cem\u003e\u0026rdquo;\u003c/em\u003e. According to the questionnaire survey, borehole drilling employees receive safety trainings once a year and some will never receive them because of unceasing operations to meet the Authority certain tasks. Site supervisors specified that, continuous trainings are needed to equip borehole drilling workforce with the extensive knowledge in relation to accidents tracking strategies. Basing on the administered questionnaires, the results indicated that 56% of borehole drilling workforce is also unaware of current accidents tracking strategies because of varying levels in academic qualifications. Most of the safety issues are taught at tertiary and vocational trainings institutes depending on programs individuals are taking at both tertiary and vocational training institutes. However, according to socio-demographic data of this research only 36.8% all together, indicated degrees and national certificates according to Table \u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e. Mostly, those who reported degrees and national certificates are permanent workers, of which the large population of borehole drilling employees are contract workers, hence higher knowledge gap and thus another reason for 56% being unaware. SHE officer explicated that, there are certain employees especially permanent employees who might not have strong academic background but they are fully aware of current accidents tracking strategies because of working experience. The SHE officer also added that working experience had exposed some employees to the existing accident tracking strategies for example safety logbooks, that\u0026rsquo;s the reason for them to be fully aware of the current accidents tracking strategies. However, according to Table \u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e, most of the borehole drilling employees are contract workers, therefore they do not have knowledge about accidents tracking strategies starting with existing ones due to lack of working experience and continuous trainings.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSafety, health and environmental officer mentioned the use of safety lagging indicator (Documented accident reports) as the current accident tracking strategy. Documented accident reports help to capture the accidents root causes which then initiate the formulation of preventive measures. SHE officer also mentioned the use of accident risk registers in accident tracking, according to this site foreman accidents risk registers are used to track the main risk factors that have resulted in accident occurrence. NASSA inspectorate mentioned the follow ups on accident investigation reports as a way that is being used by ZINWA to track the accident root causes at borehole drilling sites. ZINWA Groundwater manager, Human Capital Manager and Director of irrigation and rural development indicated same accidents tracking strategies that were indicated by the ZINWA SHE officer and NASSA inspectorate.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccident and near misses documented reports to identify accidents root causes and accidents trends is also being used at BlueSea borehole drilling company as a way to manage occupational hazards. 11% specified accident reporting as a way to manage occupational hazards at borehole drilling sites (Muringaniza et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). However, ZINWA is using documented accident reports not only to manage hazards that results in accidents at borehole drilling sites, but to track accidents root causes as well.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec19\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCurrent management strategies\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn accord to the questionnaire survey, safety protocols at borehole drilling sites formulated by the Safety, health and Environmental department in collaboration with Groundwater department are currently being used to manage accidents at borehole drilling sites. According to the questionnaire survey, 100% specified that safety protocols and instructions such as proper wearing of PPE/C and no smoking are being used at borehole drilling sites to manage accidents. Also, 93% mentioned the use of toolbox talks as a way to proactively manage hazards and risks encountered at borehole drilling sites. Hazard identification and risk assessment is also another current accident management strategy that is being used by ZINWA to shape the safety protocols and instructions at borehole drilling sites mentioned as by 66%. Moreover, 20% of employees also indicated the provision of PPE/C as a way to manage accidents at borehole drilling sites and all this information is summarized by the Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e. Basing on the interview data, reports reviews and follow ups were also pin pointed as ways to manage accidents at borehole drilling sites. Basing on the interview data, legal frameworks are being used to shape the safety protocols and instructions that were indicated by all general employees (100%).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec20\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSource: Field Data\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec21\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSafety protocols/ Instructions\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eConferring to Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, 100% from questionnaire survey indicated the use of safety protocols and instructions as a way that is being used by ZINWA to manage workplace hazards and risks factors that contributes to accident occurrences. Site supervisors explained that there are safety protocols at ZINWA borehole drilling sites that employees are obliged to for accident management and reduction. ZINWA employees in Manoti mentioned proper wearing of PPE/C such as safety glasses, goggles, helmets and high visibility clothing as a way to manage accidents that results from hazards at borehole drilling sites. For example, safety gloves help to safeguard employees from highly flammable liquids that are used at borehole drilling sites preventing burns and fire incidents. In accord to the questionnaire survey, proper lifting techniques are also included in ZINWA safety protocols at borehole drilling sites. Borehole drilling operations involves lifting of borehole drilling rods and without proper lifting techniques there will be high rate of accidents resulting from slips, trips and falls. ZINWA employees in Manoti also mentioned that there are safety instructions to reduce the accident occurrence at borehole drilling sites, the safety instructions include no smoking and no smoking reduces the fire incidents at borehole drilling sites. Therefore, safety protocols and instructions combined are being used to manage accidents at borehole drilling sites. Site foremen specified that safety protocols and instructions being used at borehole drilling sites are shaped by ZINWA safety policy, safety management system and SHE legal frameworks.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec22\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eToolbox talks\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eBestowing to Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, 93% from questionnaire survey have indicated the use of toolbox talks, before, after and during water pump installations and borehole drilling operations depending on circumstances. Toolbox talks ensure that employees are well equipped with the knowledge in relation to hazards and risks that are encountered at borehole drilling sites as indicated by the site supervisors. Having knowledge of the hazards and risks increase situational awareness during water pump installation and borehole drilling operations thereby ensuring safe work practices which in turn ultimately reduces accidents encountered at borehole drilling sites as indicated by the SHE officer.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eToolbox talks are also being used by other borehole drilling companies for example, 12% of BlueSea borehole drilling employees mentioned the use of toolbox talks before drilling to effectively manage hazards at the company (Muringaniza et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec23\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eHazard identification and risk assessment\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs indicated Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, 66% from questionnaire survey mentioned the use of hazard identification and risk assessment as a way to proactively manage accidents at borehole drilling sites specifically in Manoti. The reason behind the 66% is because most of the employees are unaware of what HIRA is due to various factors such as working experience and academic qualifications. Most of the employees who highlighted hazard identification and risk assessment are site supervisors because there are exposed to continuous safety trainings. Continuous Safety trainings enables site supervisors to understand the hazards and risks usually encountered at borehole drilling sites. The other employees who mentioned the use of hazard identification and risk assessment are employees with strong academic background and working experience above 5 years. In accord to the administered questionnaire, hazard identification is being used to identify hazards and risk assessment are used to assess the risk factors that results from exposure to such hazards for example accidents. Hazard identification and risk assessment ensures proactive and effective management of accidents through the formulation of new safety protocols and instructions that will complement the existing ones. All this information was validated by the interview data. Safety, Health and environmental officer expound that hazard identification and risk assessments are being done through safety surveys. SHE officer also indicate that, hazard identification and risk assessment process initiates the formulation of robust safety protocols and instructions that can effectively manage different types of accidents at borehole drilling sites.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRisk assessments and safety trainings to manage borehole drilling hazards are also being used by other borehole drilling companies for example, 13% of BlueSea borehole drilling company employees, in Harare District indicated that risk assessments are used to manage occupational hazards (Muringaniza et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). Also, 27% of BlueSea borehole drilling company also mentioned the use of trainings on standard work procedures. According to this study, these trainings are important as they can assist in identification of potential risks (Shabani et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR32\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003ea, b, c, d).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec24\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003ePersonal Protective Equipment/Clothing\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn accord to questionnaire survey, 20% mentioned provision of Personal Protective Equipment/Clothing as a way that is being used by Zimbabwe National Water Authority to manage occupational hazards mentioned that results in accident occurrences. The main reason behind the 20% is that most of the employees mentioned inequitable distribution and ineffective provision of PPE/C as shown in Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e. Personal protective equipment and clothing mentioned include high visibility clothing, safety glasses, safety shoes, ear plugs, respiratory masks, work suits, safety gloves and hard hats. In accordance to that 20% from the questionnaire survey, slips, trips and falls and equipment related accidents such as falling of objects are being managed by safety shoes and hard hats. According to the questionnaire respondents, safety glasses provided by ZINWA are also safeguarding employees from flying debris, dust and chemicals. Earplugs mentioned above also safeguard employees from loud noises generated by drillings rigs and generators. Bestowing to the questionnaire survey, PPE such as safety gloves safeguard employees from physical contact with toxic substances and fluids used during borehole drilling operations. Rendering to the questionnaire survey, avoidance of physical contact with toxic substances helps to safeguard employees from skin irritations and severity of physical burns in case of fire incidents. Conferring to the questionnaire survey, respiratory masks safeguards employees from dust, fumes, smokes and other airborne contaminants. With regards to the questionnaire survey, high visibility clothing such as reflective vests provided by ZINWA is safeguarding employees from being hit by near moving machines in low-light conditions. ZINWA groundwater manager, specified that \u0026ldquo;\u0026hellip;provision of PPE/Clothing boost staff morale which in turns increases safety culture, ultimately reducing accidents at borehole drilling sites as an end result...\u003cem\u003e\u0026rdquo;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe use of Personal protective equipment manage occupational hazards was also demonstrated in BlueSea borehole drilling company as 19% of the employees specified that helmets, safety glasses, gloves, ear plugs are being used to safeguard employees from occupational hazards (Muringaniza et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec25\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eReports reviews and follow ups\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eInterview data for this research indicated that ZINWA reports reviews and follow ups as methods to effectively manage hazards and risk factors contributing to accident occurrence. According to the interview data, reports review and follows up enables the identification of accident root causes, accidents patterns and trends. In accordance with the information provided by the interview data, accidents reports, near miss incident reports, safety reports, safety survey and inspections reports, HIRA reports and safety audits reports are reviewed in order to have a comprehensive overview of the causes of accidents/incidents at borehole drilling sites of Manoti. Full knowledge of accident root causes, patterns and trends enables the management of hazards and risks that exposes employees to certain accidents and incidents through the formulation of effective safety operational procedures, protocols and standards. Safety, health and environmental officer mentioned that it is these reports reviews and follow ups that profiles the safety protocols and instructions that is being used at borehole drilling sites.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec26\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eLegal frameworks\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccording to interview data, the legal frameworks highlighted in this paragraph are not specifically used to manage accidents at ZINWA borehole drilling sites. However, they are used to develop the safety protocols and instructions that guide the management of ZINWA borehole drillings operations. The use of legal frameworks to manage borehole drilling hazards and risks that contributes to accident occurrence were mentioned by NASSA inspectorate, ZINWA Safety, Health and Environmental officer and ZINWA Human Capital Administration Manager. NASSA inspectorate indicated that Factories and Works Act (20 of 1948) is being used to regulate the machinery conditions and usage for instance borehole drilling rigs conditions and their usage. Also, NASSA inspectorate explained that, Factories and works is encompassed with regulations to ensure employees safety and overall wellness. The inspectorate also mentioned the use of RGN 263 section 8 that safeguard employees from falls and foot injuries due to provision of effective safety shoes. Borehole drilling operations are coupled with machinery and equipment usage; such as drilling rods and hammers and without steel toed footwear, there will be serious foot injuries. Thus, NASSA inspectorate also mentioned that borehole drilling crews, though to a lesser extent have first aid boxes encompassed with all requisite dressings, as per general regulations Section 10 (5). First aid box ensure that employees physical injuries and chemical burns are addressed quickly before they became serious injuries. Though not currently practiced, NASSA inspectorate also stated that in order to manage fire incidents at borehole drilling sites, borehole drilling employees must be given firefighting equipment in accordance with RGN 262 section 10. Fire incidents are encountered at borehole drilling sites due electrical failures, equipment malfunctions and use of highly flammable fluids. However, NASSA inspectorate also stated the use of RGN 302 of 1976 for machinery regulations and this RGN safeguard employees from using poorly serviced rig machines. NASSA inspectorate also mentioned the use of National Social Security Authority (Accident Prevention and Workers Compensation Scheme) Notice, SI 68 0f 1990 at ZINWA borehole drilling sites to compensate injured workers as a result of work induced accidents. NASSA inspectorate pointed out that SI 68 of 1990 is encompassed with duties for employers, supervisors, employees and manufacturers to prevent workplace accidents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eZINWA safety, health and environmental officer agreed to the use of regulations and frameworks mentioned above by the NASSA inspectorate. Borehole drilling operations generates high amounts dust that results in respiratory issues and accidents. Therefore, ZINWA safety, health and environmental officer mentioned Pneumoconiosis Act (Chap.\u0026nbsp;15:08) as an act that is being used to manage accidents and illnesses that results from working in dusty conditions. Borehole drilling operations are encompassed with verbal abuse, discrimination and bullying which escalates accident rates at borehole drilling sites due to absence of safety culture. Therefore, ZINWA Human Capital and administration manager mentioned the use of Labour Act (Chap.\u0026nbsp;28:01) and constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment No. 20 of 2013 section 65. According to ZINWA HCA manager, Labor Act and Constitution of Zimbabwe ensure that safe labour practices, fair, equitable and satisfactory conditions of work.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNASSA noted that, \u0026ldquo;\u0026hellip;It is the current accidents management strategies that ensure people are aware of the current accidents tracking strategies. Ineffective accident management strategies such lack of continuous safety trainings results in poor awareness of accidents tracking strategies. ZINWA current accidents management strategies focus more on training site supervisors as borehole drilling employees are receiving safety trainings once or twice a year, that\u0026rsquo;s the reason for low awareness of current accidents tracking strategies. However, if ZINWA starts to train and to offer continuous safety trainings to borehole drilling employees, those employees will start to be aware of the essentiality of accident risk registers and how they can be used to track accidents. Continuous safety trainings will enlighten borehole drilling employees about the meaning of the phrase \u0026ldquo;accident tracking\u0026rdquo; and the significance of accidents tracking strategies. Trainings will also ensure that employees are aware of the significance of accident investigation and accident investigation reports and how those reports can aid in identifying the accidents trends which is crucial for accidents tracking\u0026hellip;\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eEffectiveness of Current Accidents Tracking and Management Strategies.\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn accord to the questionnaire survey, 70.40% indicated that the current accidents tracking and management strategies used are not effective at all. Also, 20% specified that these current accidents tracking and management strategies are effective enough since they ensure accident reporting which in turn assist in managing the hazards and risks that borehole drilling employee\u0026rsquo;s face at borehole drilling sites. Moreover, 8% showed that the current accidents tracking and management strategies used are moderately effective and only 1.60% specified that these current accidents tracking and management strategies used are very effective. Figure\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e will summarize the aforementioned information\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec27\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSource: Field Data\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn regard to the questionnaire survey, 70.40% are not satisfied with the current accidents tracking and management strategies as these strategies are poorly functional in addressing the hazards and risks factors that contributes to accident occurrences at borehole drilling sites as shown in Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e. This is because these current accidents tracking and management strategies does not incorporate continuous safety trainings for drilling workforce as trainings are conducted yearly and some have never received them at all. In regards to the questionnaire survey, these current accidents tracking and management strategies are not effective because of borehole drilling accidents which keeps occurring at a high rate because of poor accidents investigations, poor medical examinations to check the employee overall fitness and health in relation to the execution of borehole tasks. In accord to the questionnaire survey, accidents investigations that are conducted are not identifying the accident root causes, because same accidents are reoccurring regardless of these investigations. In regard to the questionnaire survey, these current management strategies do not fully review the PPE/C that is given employees at borehole drilling sites as there is absence, inequitable distribution and effective provision of PPE/C. Rendering to the questionnaire survey, some incidents and accidents take time to be reported to the head office for compensations. The idea that these accident tracking and management strategies are not effective enough was further explained by NASSA inspectorate. NASSA inspectorate said the borehole drilling accidents are continuously increasing in Manoti because of absence of safety standards like ISO 45001, poor accidents investigations, poor safety surveys and inspections to effectively note down the hazards and risk factors contributing to accident occurrence.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs indicated by Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, 20% from questionnaire survey mentioned that these current methods for accident tracking and management are effective because at least accidents are reported and employees who are involved in such accidents receive compensations from NASSA. Conferring to the Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, 8% said these methods used to track and manage accidents are moderately effective because at least they train site supervisors as site supervisors are the focal individuals that must be equipped with safety knowledge needed to enhance their site supervision and monitoring at borehole drilling sites. According to the Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, 1.60% of questionnaire respondents actually mentioned that, these current accidents tracking and management strategies are very effective because they ensure that employees receive compensations form NASSA after they are injured or involved in an accident during water pump installation or borehole drilling operations.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAn accident tracking and management framework at borehole drilling sites of Zimbabwe National Water Authority in Manoti ward 1 of Gokwe South District.\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis section developed a framework highlighted in Fig.\u0026nbsp;5 with 6 stages. The first stage is the plan stage, followed by the Do stage; check stage is the third stage of this framework, which is then followed by the Act stage. All these stages lead to a final output and the final output is reduction in accident rates at ZINWA borehole drilling sites, in Manoti, of Gokwe South District.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe accident tracking and management framework formulated has been profiled using ZINWA existing safety leading and lagging indicators highlighted in the research methodology. This accident tracking and management framework was also profiled using the Plan, Do, Check and Act, the Deming cycle introduced by Walter Shewhart 1939 and later modified by W. Edwards Deming. However, the framework is encompassed with some new features to ensure holistic accident management as well as accident tracking. The framework was also profiled using the research objectives, research findings from the questionnaire survey, the overviews, perceptions and recommendations from interviews. The framework in Fig.\u0026nbsp;4.10 is characterized by 6 stages, with the final output being the accident rates reduction.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn the \u003cb\u003ePLAN\u003c/b\u003e stage, the idea is to enhance the already existing safety policy and management system to ensure effective accidents tracking and management strategies. This safety management system can be enhanced by the means of adding new features such as the Hierarchy of control. Hierarchy of control ensures that occupational hazards and risks factors are managed before resulting into an accident. The Hierarchy of control involves 6 stages: Stage 1: elimination of the hazard that means totally removing the hazard, Stage 2: substitution of the hazard, that means to use a safer alternative to the font of the hazard, Stage 3: Isolation, meaning isolating people from the hazard. Stage 4: Engineering controls for instance using mechanized rigs machines, Stage 5: Administrative controls, meaning to formulate policies that safeguard employees from being exposed to occupational hazards and risks factors that contributes to accident occurrence at borehole drilling sites. Stage 6: which is the least preferred involves provision of effective PPE/C such as safety gloves to safeguard employees from the chemical burns and skin exposure to highly flammable fluids used at borehole drilling sites. The plan stage, also involved the addition of the new safety approaches such as Zero harm safety approach into safety management system, because it will increase safety culture at borehole drilling sites, which in turn ultimately ensures effective accident management strategies and effective accidents tracking procedures. Safety standards such as ISO 45001 can also enhance the safety management system which in turn results in effective accident tracking and management. In order to identify the accident root causes and trends which is crucial for accident tracking and management, incident analysis, root causes analysis such as the 5 why technique, hazan, hazid and hazop must be added into the safety management system.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the above paragraph, the researcher added new features to the already existing safety lagging and leading indicators that was being used by ZINWA to track and manage accidents at borehole drilling sites in Manoti. The researcher added, Workplace safety risks, hazards and accident registers. ZINWA had one risk register that caters for hazards, risks and accidents. However, having a register for workplace risks, hazards and accidents separately enables the authority to comprehensively capture near miss incidents, injury and accidents data records and it also enables the Authority to comprehensively record all the hazards contributing to accident occurrence. The risk registers formulated by the researcher enables the authority to document fatality rates, incident rates and accident rates in conjunction with causes for such rates, which in turn enables site supervisor, employees and safety and environmental officer to analyze trends and trends analysis is crucial for accident tracking. Emergency preparedness plans, medical examinations, hazard identification and risk assessments as well as provision of effective Personal protective equipment were added to shape the already existing safety leading indicators used by ZINWA. Emergency preparedness plans initiates the formulation of effective accident management strategies that will effectively track accidents trends as well, hazard identification and risk assessment enable documentation of hazards and risks factors contributing to accident occurrence, those documented reports will be used to track the main hazards and risks factors contributing to accident occurrence. Lastly on the planning stage, in order to effectively track and manage accidents at borehole drilling sites of Manoti, the safety protocols or procedures in place must be in line with Legal frameworks and standards for safety management such as Factories and Works Act (20 of 1948) and its regulations.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe next stage in relation to the above framework is the \u003cb\u003eDO\u003c/b\u003e stage and this stage puts those plans mentioned above into actions. Recently, ZINWA is using Indian drilling rigs which require manual handling, hence on this do stage, the researcher proposed the procurement and the use of mechanized rig machines encompassed with down hole cameras. Additionally, such mechanized rigs enable real time sensor measurements and event tracking analysis and such measurements and analysis enables the tracking of accidents root causes. Use of mechanized rig machines also helps to manage musculoskeletal disorders related accidents which are triggered by the use of non-mechanized rig machines that requires manual lifting of drilling rods. On this do stage, in order to ensure that those plans formulated above are put into place and are functional at borehole drilling sites: safety surveys, inspections, audits, toolbox/safety talks and trainings must be conducted. Moreover, trainings coupled with safety audits enables employees to understand on how to do incident analysis and accident root cause analysis for accident tracking using the Fault tree analysis and the 5 why technique. Safety trainings will also enlighten employees on how to apply hazan, hazid and hazop and event tree analysis to effectively track the hazards that have resulted into accidents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cb\u003eCHECK\u003c/b\u003e stage is the third stage of this framework. On this stage 3 major things which are being focused on are reports review, drilling rigs conditions reviews and the review of the functionality as well as the competence of safety operational procedures and protocols at borehole drilling sites. Reports reviews enables accident tracking by following the trends and patterns of incidents and accidents in documented reports. Reviewing borehole drilling rigs conditions is crucial as it enables servicing of borehole drilling rigs, ultimately reducing exposure of employees to accidents being caused by operating poorly serviced rig machines. Reviewing the functionality of safety operational procedures and protocols allows for the identification of loopholes in relation to accidents tracking and management strategies which then initiates the site supervisors, employees and the senior management to proceed to the next stage of this framework, the Act stage. The \u003cb\u003eACT\u003c/b\u003e stage involves procedures that evaluate the functionality and the effectiveness of the plans, the actions and reviews that are in place to track and manage accidents at borehole drilling sites. The act stage involves regular monitoring to ensure compliance with the safety operational procedures and instructions; it also involves constant monitoring to ensure that safety procedures and protocols in place are in line with the updated legal framework. This Act stage also involves continuous safety surveys, reviews, and inspections weekly. This stage also involves continuous documented reports reviews at weekly basis and it also involves regular monitoring and check-ups of borehole drilling rigs conditions. This stage will identify the functionality levels and the loopholes of this whole framework.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAll these stages if properly followed, the \u003cb\u003eoutcome\u003c/b\u003e will be enhanced safety culture at borehole drilling sites and enhanced safety culture ensures enhancement in accident tracking and management strategies which then results in \u003cb\u003efinal output\u003c/b\u003e; that is reduction in accident rates while ensuring employee overall health wellness.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion and recommendations","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec28\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBasing on the research findings, the study concludes that Zimbabwe National Water Authority borehole drilling sites in Manoti ward 1, of Gokwe South District experience a high accident rate. The study concludes that there is low level of awareness of the current accidents tracking strategies due to absence of continuous trainings. However, those who are fully aware of the current accidents tracking strategies specified accident reports, accident investigation reports and accident risk registers as the current accidents tracking strategies being used by ZINWA to track accidents at borehole drilling sites. Basing on the research findings, Safety protocols, toolbox talks, hazard identification and risk assessment, Personal Protective Equipment/Clothing are the main current strategies that ZINWA is using to manage accidents encountered at borehole drillings sites in Manoti. However, these current accidents tracking and management strategies are not fully effective to reduce the accident rates at borehole drilling sites. Therefore, the research has found that the rise in accidents rates at ZINWA borehole drilling sites in Manoti ward 1, of Gokwe South District, is attributed to incompetency of the current accident tracking and management strategies. Summing up the research, in order to manage shortcomings of the current accidents tracking and management strategies, this research developed an accident tracking and management framework with the final output of reduction in accidents rates encountered at borehole drilling sites in Manoti.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBasing on the research findings, the following recommendations are proposed, NASSA inspectorate is recommended to conduct continuous safety inspections and audits to ensure compliance with legal frameworks. Director of irrigation and rural development is recommended to formulate effective safety protocols and operational standards alongside Ground water and SHE officer manager. Groundwater manager is recommended to ensure that the groundwater department conducts accident investigations alongside SHE department for holistic accident root causes tracking. Groundwater department must also come up with strategies to track and manage borehole drilling accidents since they continuously interact with the drilling workforce. Human Capital Administration Manager is recommended to ensure procurement of effective and ensure equitable distribution of Personal Protective Equipment/Clothing as per Safety, health and environmental department checklists. Human Capital Administration Manager must also continuously insist on wellness days as well as medical examinations in agreement with SHE department. Safety, health and environmental officer is recommended to conduct safety surveys, inspections, hazard identification and risk assessments and safety audits continuously and at regular intervals. This is critical as this can aid in formulation of effective accidents tracking and management strategies that can holistically manage hazards and risks factors contributing to accident occurrence at borehole drilling sites. In order to ensure and check if borehole drilling workforce is adhering to safety protocols and instructions that in turn reduces accidents at borehole drilling sites, the SHE officer is recommended to conduct safety surveys and inspections continuously and at regular intervals. Borehole drilling employees are recommended to adhere to safety protocols and instructions. Borehole drilling employees must also report all safety issues for instance near misses, injuries and accidents they encounter at borehole drilling sites during borehole drilling operations as this will aid in tracking and managing of accidents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAbdali, M.R., Mohamadian, N., Ghorbani, H. and Wood, D.A., (2021) Petroleum well blowouts as a threat to drilling operation and wellbore sustainability: causes, prevention, safety and emergency response. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Construction Materials| Special Issue on Sustainable Petroleum Engineering ISSN\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e2652\u003c/em\u003e, p.3752.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlhammadi, A., Mwansa, P.L., Rahma, R.A., Eliwa, A.A., Hadidy, K.A., Shamsi, J.A., Draz, A.A., Remeithi, A.A., Alajami, A., Baptista, L. and Alsaadi, H.M., (2025) May. 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Borehole drilling activities to meet certain targets have resulted in an average of four people being injured per rig accident-causing muscular disorders and limb fractures to Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) employees. Thus, this research delves into the intricate realm of occupational safety within the context of borehole drilling sites, with a specific focus on the development of an advanced Accident Tracking and Management Framework at borehole drilling sites of Zimbabwe National Water Authority in Gokwe South District, of Midlands\u0026rsquo;s province, Zimbabwe. The researchers employed a descriptive research design approach using a combination of qualitative and quantitative techniques. The researchers self-administered 130 questionnaires to ZINWA employees using a simple random sampling technique and purposive sampling was used for selecting interviewees of this research. ZINWA\u0026rsquo;s current accident tracking and management strategies are predominantly reactive rather than proactive, as evidenced by continuous exposure of employees to accidents. A significant majority (70.40%) of employees have indicated these strategies as ineffective, with only (1.60%) of employees indicating these strategies as effective. The research recommends intervention towards continuous safety inspections and safety trainings to improve safety culture within the authorities\u0026rsquo; operations. Proposed framework will ensure attainment of sustainable development goal 6 (universal access to water), as well as 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.A, 6.B Presidential Borehole scheme target (drill 35000 boreholes by 2025) and Presidential Rural Horticulture Transformation Programme.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Developing an Accident Tracking and Management Framework at Borehole Drilling Sites of Zimbabwe National Water Authority in Gokwe South District of Midlands Province, Zimbabwe","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-11-20 05:24:13","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8155163/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"e32149e9-735d-4c40-a26e-234dd0b37358","owner":[],"postedDate":"November 20th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-11-20T05:24:13+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-11-20 05:24:13","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-8155163","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-8155163","identity":"rs-8155163","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}