AN ASSESSMENT ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF DISASTER PREPAREDNESS MEASURES FOR PHYSICAL RECORDS MANAGEMENT: A CASE STUDY OF DEPARTMENT OF LAND NATURAL RESOURCES OFFICE AT BAGAMOYO

This study assessed the implementation of disaster preparedness measures for physical records management in the Department of Land and Natural Resources Office, Bagamoyo District. The study aimed to identify the types of disasters that threaten physical records, assess the disaster preparedness measures implemented, examine the level of staff awareness and preparedness, and identify challenges affecting the effective implementation of disaster preparedness measures. A mixed-method research design was employed, whereby quantitative and qualitative data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and observation. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that physical records are exposed to various disasters, including fire, floods, pests, and poor storage conditions. Although some disaster preparedness measures exist, they are inadequate and insufficient to ensure effective protection of records. The study further found that staff awareness and preparedness are generally low due to limited training and the absence of regular disaster drills. In addition, the institution faces several challenges, including inadequate financial resources, insufficient storage facilities, lack of disaster management policies, limited training opportunities, and inadequate disaster response equipment. The study concludes that disaster preparedness for physical records management remains weak and requires significant improvement. It recommends strengthening disaster preparedness policies, providing regular staff training and disaster drills, improving records storage facilities, allocating adequate financial resources, and equipping the institution with appropriate disaster response tools to ensure the long-term preservation and protection of physical records.

Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Peer review

Not peer-reviewed

Licence

All rights reserved