OSHA Launches Nationwide School Safety Competitions to Promote Mental and Physical Well-Being

8/18/2026
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Background

The Occupational Safety and Health Agency (OSHA) of Trinidad and Tobago, the body responsible for enforcing the Occupational Safety and Health Act, announced a new outreach initiative aimed at young people. The agency clarified that the correct term is the Occupational Safety and Health Act, not the “OSHA Act,” and highlighted its role in safeguarding workplaces across the nation.

Link to International Theme

The program coincides with the International Labour Organization’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work on 28 April, whose 2024 theme is “Let’s ensure a healthy psychosocial working environment.” OSHA intends to extend the focus on mental health to schools, preparing students for future workplaces.

Competition Overview

Two separate competitions were unveiled:

  • Art Competition – “Happier Minds, Healthier, Safer Classrooms” – targeted at primary-school pupils (approximately ages 5-12).
  • Spoken-Word Competition – “Words for Well-being” – aimed at secondary-school students (Form 1-6).

Both contests encourage participants to explore mental-health awareness, safety culture, and risk identification in school settings.

Participation Details

  • Primary-school art entries – students submit artwork reflecting safety and mental-health themes.
  • Secondary-school spoken-word pieces – students create spoken-word performances on similar topics.

Submissions can be delivered in person to any of OSHA’s regional offices:

  • Head Office – corner of Eastern Main Road and St John’s Road, St Augustine.
  • Southern Office – 65 Superio Street, San Fernando.
  • Tobago Office – 2 Glen Road, Scarborough.

All competition criteria, entry forms, and further instructions are available on the agency’s website www.osha.gov.tt. For additional questions, callers may contact the communications department at 612-3900 (extensions 270271 or 272).

Prizes and Recognition

Winners will receive:

  • A Samsung Galaxy tablet for each individual winner.
  • A TT $1,500 stationery voucher for the winning school.

The competition period closes on 28 August, with winners announced on 30 September. This inaugural event is intended to become an annual fixture, reinforcing a safety-first mindset in educational environments.

Future Outlook

OSHA expressed hopes to expand the initiative to higher educational levels and deepen community engagement through social-media showcases of selected artworks and spoken-word performances. The agency aims to build a lasting culture of safety and mental-health awareness within Trinidad and Tobago’s schools.

The interview concluded with thanks to the guests, Alini Timal (Communications & Outreach Manager) and Amelia Diaz (Communication Specialist), and a reminder for listeners to visit the website for full details.