THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF RECORDS REGULATORY FRAMEWORKS IN HR RECORDS’ MANAGEMENT IN PUBLIC SECTOR: A CASE OF RAS OFFICE TABORA Eliamani Mathayo Faculty of Business Management, Open University of Tanzania. siyanga.lukumay@gmail.com Dr.Chacha Alfred Matoka Senior Lecturer Open University of Tanzania, chacha.matoka@out.ac.tz ABSTRACT The study aimed to discover the contributions of records regulatory frameworks in HR records’ management, records’ security measures and the extent to which electronic records keeping system has been adopted in HR records management in Public Sector case of RAS Tabora. The study used mixed approach and had a sample of 77 respondents from the total population of 170. The study applied probability and non -probability sampling techniques. Primary and secondary data were collected whereby questionnaires, interview and documentation were used to collect data. The study applied descriptive statistic and content analysis to analysed data. In the main more than 80% of the respondents indicated knowing the contribution of records regulatory frameworks in HR records management. However some of the respondents said that the contribution of record regulatory framework in HR records management at RAS Tabora is average. Almost more than 80% of the respondents point out knowing records’ security measures applied in HR records management and electronic records keeping system applied in HR records management. Generally the study shows that despite the role of human resources records in public sector there are factors affecting it management therefore RAS Tabora management needs to take measure to improve personnel record keeping infrastructure and develop human resources record management regulatory frameworks. Keywords: Records, human resources records, records management, public sector INTRODUCTION Worldwide Records regulatory frameworks are key elements in the safeguarding of HR records and infromation both papers and electronic records. Zaja (2019) states that the northern countries of Europe, namely: Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, have taken the lead in developing their own standards and thus carry significant weight in the development of records and archival legislation and other similar normative regulations. Within this framework, HR records are faced with the issue of record control, as well as the construction of an IT infrastructure that must preserve electronic human resources records in the long run. The Open Information Archive System (OAIS) reference model and international ISO standards provide solutions to the presented tasks and are the major models that 2 underpin the development of record architecture in northern Europe.. By adapting their own standards to legal requirements and international standards, these countries continuously create and maintain the ideal conditions for long-term human resources record keeping. Manag (2017) in his study on examination of the Record Management Policies for Creation and Management of Personnel Records in Uasin Gishu County Government of Kenya. The study seeks to answer the question: what policies are in existence for the creation and management of personnel records?. The study was motivated by the need to improve on the management of personnel records, to ensure that information about employees is available to take decisions and protect their rights. The objective of the study is to establish what records management policies exist in creation and management of personnel records. The findings of the study revealed that record keeping practices in Uasin Gishu County Government are not adequately supported by a record keeping infrastructure, which is made up of a policy and regulatory framework, a programme structure, resources and people. The Recommendations from the study is that the government develops and implements effective systems and procedures constituting policies and regulatory framework for personnel records management. Makwae (2020),in his study on Legal frameworks for personnel records management in support of accountability in devolved governments. The study was conducted using a descriptive design. This design ensures that data collected are analysed and findings are reported to establish a better understanding of a physical or social phenomenon. The study was conducted at the County Government of Garissa’s Head Quarters, the target population comprising HRMO, PRMO, PRMC and staff from different ministries who depended on the personnel records management activities. Purposive sampling was used to select 11 HRMO, 11 PRMO, 11 PRMC and 55 staff members who made the total sample of 88 respondents from the population. Questionnaire method was used to collect data from HRMO, PRMO, PRMC and staff members quickly and give more freedom (in terms of time and flexibility) to the respondents. Interviews were used to obtain more in depth information from the PRMO, HRMO and PRMC being the individuals’ in-charge of personnel records were to provide information on legal frameworks for personnel records management at GCG. Nonexistence of personnel records management legal frameworks implies that the responsibilities for cooperate record management to organization plans and guidelines of managing personnel records were inefficient. As a result of the absence of written personnel records management policy, there was also a lack of guidelines for appraisal, disposition and schedules of human resources records. On legal frameworks for personnel records management in the institution, the findings revealed that there were many policies in the government but personnel records management policy was missing which is very crucial. Record management policy will also enhance human resource management policy. The missing of the personnel records management policy reduces the accountability to people who deal with records management in general, increases lack of integrity and indicate that there is a presence of irrational decision. Mukred (2019) on his study established that, parastatals had to put effort to not only develop records management policies but also implement them in manual and digital work settings. Some of the purposes of these policies needed staff to be oriented to enable easy comprehension. Notably, government parastatals had not yet put enough effort towards ensuring that changes in polices were notified to the staff. This left the staff to make personal initiatives on how and where to get the records management policy manuals. As a result, there were increased cases of loss of HR records especially when changes in policies affect the HR records keeping system. The study recommends that the management should employ strict measures such as assigning the task of distribution of policy manuals to staff in departments. This could be done through sending emails to staff notifyingthem on policy change. Like other countries, the Tanzanian government also undertook considerable initiatives in enforcing the implementation of records regulatory framework. Kashaija (2019) assessed the implementation of legal frameworks on current records panagement in public offices a Case of Tanzania Business Registration and Licensing Agency (BRELA). The study targeted a population of 88 staff members of BRELA from whom, 40 respondents were purposively sampled. Qualitative data were collected through interview and observation while quantitative data were collected by using questionnaires. In that assesment the study reveals that, BRELA has failed to implement the legal frameworks effectively in its records creation and capture, classification, tracking and use, storage and protection. The study recommends that BRELA’s top management should prioritise its record management unit to ensure effective record management. BRELA should adopt keyword filing classification system as stipulated by Registry procedures manual of 2007, and establishing guidelines and standards for records security, documenting and implementing disaster preparedness and vital records plan, procedures for access control with assistance from RAMD. Manyeke (2022) explores the impact of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) on data protection in records management. It argues that 4IR technologies such as the blockchain, internet of things, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence are present in records management. Specifically, the paper explores the opportunities and challenges brought by 4IR technologies in data protection and HR record management in Africa. The study adopted a qualitative approach to review the literature on technologies endorsed in records management and the opportunities and challenges of adopting 4IR to data protection, using published book chapters, journals, conference proceedings, journal articles, and reports. The study found that the adoption of 4IR offers potential benefits such as improved security of records, enhanced data protection, and risk mitigation. The study also found that embracing 4IR technologies in records management presents security, privacy, and data protection challenges for records managers. The paper recommends several solutions to records managers, such as a review of legislation concerning data protection and the inclusion of data protection requirements into 4IR technologies to improve data protection. On the other hand, Mukred (2019) argues that the lack of core legislation and policies on information and communication technology (ICT), cybersecurity, and data protection are some of the factors that affect countries in the South African Development Committee (SADC) in enhancing the security of HR records. LITERATURE REVIEW Human resources records. Anything that pertains to employment should be kept in an employee’s personal file. Every employee has a right to know what type of information is kept about him or her, which must be accurate. It is also the responsibility of an employer to make sure those records are inaccessible to nonmanagement personnel who could use the employee’s personal information (i.e. social security number, address, birth date, etc.) for nefarious purposes (Tsabedze,2020). Lwoga (2020) at the center of organizational human resources records management program there are records regulatory framewokrs. These policies, legislation and regulation define what HR information the organization must keep as a record, the procedures for managing those records, their retention periods, and procedures for ensuring their secure destruction. Hence there is a significant positive relationship between Records regulatory framework and Human resources records management. In addition, employees’ personnel files should have standard forms that are used universally through the HR department; this includes disciplinary forms, salary increase orders, performance reviews and the original employment application which should all be copied to individual personnel files. According to Makwae (2021), all personnel files should be kept under lock and key because of their sensitive nature. 4 Personnel files need to be made available to the employee upon request. The employee is not allowed to take a personal file home; he or she can, however, request copies of anything that is in the file The Government of Tanzania has taken very impressive steps to develop policies, laws and regulations for the management of Government records, such as the Records and Archives Management Act and the national Records Management Policy. These were positive changes and other countries could benefit from Tanzania’s example. A cautionary note was that while new policies and regulations would require certain actions to be taken, there also needed to be compliance mechanisms and accountability structures to ensure that policies and procedures were followed. There needed to be mechanisms to monitor compliance and to follow up with remedial action where required (Fathima, 2022).The Records and Archives Management Department contributes to the efficiency, effectiveness and economy of the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania by: ensuring that public offices follow good record keeping practices; establishing and implementing procedures for the timely disposal of public records of no continuing value; advising on best practices and established standards in record keeping in the public service; and establishing and implementing procedures for the transfer of public records of enduring value for preservation in the National Archives or such other archival repository as may have been established under this Act (Act, 2002). According to the Association of Commonwealth Archivists and Records Managers (2007), the effective management of HR records and archives throughout their life cycle is a key component of national development. Unorganized or otherwise poorly managed personnel records mean that government does not have ready access to authoritative sources of administrative, financial and legal information to support sound decision-making or the delivery of programmes and services. Nor does the government have the means of holding itself accountable for what it has done or upholding the rights of its citizens (Association of Commonwealth Archivists and Records Managers, 2007). Furthermore, if records are not well-organized during the earlier stages of their life cycle, those of enduring value will not be readily identified and safeguarded as part of the national archival heritage. However, the efficient management of records and archives must be guided by well laid down legal and policy frameworks in the country. This is because the legislation provides the essential framework that enables national records and archives service to operate with authority in its dealings with other agencies of the state. Records Life-cycle Theory The development and application of the Records Lifecycle concept in records management is a subject of discussion (Penn, Pennix and Coulson, 1994;Mnjama, 1996; Millar, 1997;Yusof and Chell, 2000; Shepherd and Yeo, 2003; Ngulube and Tafor, 2006). The Records Life-cycle theory was developed in the USA after the First World War, by the then National Records and Archives Administration (Penn, Pennix and Coulson, 1994). The records life-cycle concept had been regarded as a theory which provided the framework for the operation of a records management programme. Though the records life-cycle concept has influenced the development of records and archives management in many parts of the world, it has had its own critics. The weaknesses of the records life-cycle concept, particularly, its application in managing electronic records, were noted by Yusof and Chell (2000). The authors pointed out that the records lifecycle concept would not be used in managing electronic records and needed to be replaced by a model which appropriately reflected the special characteristics of electronic records. The Conceptual Framework – here expected to be one IV and one DV The conceptual framework explains the relationship between the dependent variable and independent variable of this study. The dependent variable is the skill development composed of the following indicators: effectiveness, efficiency, improved job performance, quality service delivery, and timely service delivery, all these indicators are determined by the training which is composed of several indicators including training, off-job training, e-learning and crosstraining. Independent variables Dependent variables Records management policy HR Records management Records management act Records management standards and guidelines Figure 1: Conceptual Framework of the study. Effectiveness Efficiency Improved job performance Quality service delivery Timely service delivery Source: (Researcher, 2024) Garland (2019) at the center of organizational human resources records management program there are records regulatory framewokrs. These policies, legislation and regulation define what HR information the organization must keep as a record, the procedures for managing those records, their retention periods, and procedures for ensuring their secure destruction. Hence there is a significant positive relationship between Records regulatory framework and Human resources records management. 3.0 Methodology This study was conducted at Tabora Regional Administrative Secretary offices. The study employed mixed research approach to capture expressive information about the contribution of records regulatory frameworks in the management of human resources records in public sector. The study population of this study comprised the employees of RAS Tabora, specifically including heads of departments, administrative,actions officers and RMA other supporting staff across various departments. The sample size was 77 from the total population of 170 who were selected using a purposive sampling technique. The questionnaire and interview was used to collect data. In this study, the data analysed majorly in quantitatively using descriptive statistics where the frequency distribution, and percentage used. 6 Also, in few cases, some of the data were analysed using arithmetic mean, and standard deviation techniques. Furthermore, a summation approach enabled the researcher to determine the magnitude of a variable. The data presented using textual, tabular and diagrammatic forms. Similarly, for qualitative data, content analysis was used to analyze the data. To enhance validity and reliability, Pre-testing of the data collection tools (to make sure questions are clear and the flow is acceptable) was done and adjusted in order to fit the context of this study. Proper works of literature were reviewed and internal citations were made. Moreover, a Cronbach alpha test at a significance level of more than 0.7 was applied to test for reliability. 4.0 Results The study aimed to find out if respondents are aware of the contribution of records regulatory frameworks in HR records management at RAS Tabora. Questionnaires, interviews, documentary reviews, and observation were used to collect data. The analysis revealed different responses among respondents which are presented and discussed as sub-themes. The study examined various aspects related to the presence and importance of records regulatory frameworks in organizations. The mean score for the presence of records regulatory frameworks in the organization was 4.45, with a standard deviation of 0.59704. This indicates a high level of agreement among participants regarding the existence of such frameworks within their organizations. Records legal frameworks were identified as essential foundations for HR programs and activities, with a mean score of 4.35 and a standard deviation of 0.53228. The study highlighted that these legal frameworks play a crucial role in facilitating sound decisions and actions within human resources. Furthermore, the Records Management Policy of 2011 was found to outline the roles and responsibilities of different personnel involved in human resources records management, scoring an average of 4.43 with a standard deviation of 0.52387. Table 4.2 The Contributions Of Records Regulatory Frameworks In Human Resources Records’ Management. Mean STD 4.45 0.59704 Records legal framework operate as the foundation of HR programmes and 4.35 activities to facilitate sound decisions and actions 0.53228 Records Management Policy 2011 give the roles and responsibilities of different 4.43 personnel involved in human resources records management 0.52387 Presence of records regulatory frameworks in the organization Legal and policy framework guide the successful creation, processing and preserving HR records HR Records management policy and legislation make your records retention and storage decisions more defensible HR Records Regulatory framework ensures that records are protected from unauthorized access, and use HR Records regulatory frameworks ensure that HR records are accessible and usable by those who need them Average 4.40 0.65413 4.49 0.66141 4.36 0.74178 4.52 0.75412 4.43 0.63780 It was noted that legal and policy frameworks are instrumental in guiding the successful creation, processing, and preservation of HR records, with a mean score of 4.40 and a standard deviation of 0.65413. The HR Records Management policy and legislation were shown to enhance the defensibility of records retention and storage decisions, scoring an average of 4.49 with a standard deviation of 0.66141. Moreover, the study emphasized that HR Records Regulatory frameworks ensure the protection of records from unauthorized access and use, receiving a mean score of 4.36 with a standard deviation of 0.74178. Additionally, these regulatory frameworks guarantee that HR records are accessible and usable by those who require them, scoring an average of 4.52 with a standard deviation of 0.75412. Durimg the interview with key informant, it has be nooted that most cited contribution of records regulatory frameworks in HR records’ management were to facilitate sound decisions and actions in HR Records management and Records legal framework operate as the foundation of HR programmes and activities to facilitate sound decisions and actions. Most of respondents from all levels of the organization gives emphasis to the importance of personnel records in the public service sector to support first the proper management of human resources records then by having the efficient ways of managing such records then the human resources decision making process will be smoothened . Thus apart from decision-making and service delivery functions, personnel records were often used in a variety of other activities in the public service. Thus regulatory framework shall be in place to ensure personnel records are available and wellmanaged to support the decision making process. One of the patricpant stated that, “Maintaining human resources records helps us in making better judgments and developing appropriate policies, resulting in enhanced effectiveness and efficiency in human resources management. This will influence means for tracking operational progress and making appropriate decisions to expand the productive component of the HR Department” Regarding the contribution of records regulatory frameworks to support management of human resources records, one action officer from RAS Tabora shared that: “We use the General retention and disposal schedule, 2005 and Records management policy 2011 to decide the periods we should keep our HR records. Usually, most of HR records related with HR recruitment process are kept for not less than one year basing on instruction provided in the schedule. But the challenge is that Records retention schedule of 2005 doesn’t address for how 8 long to keep the PF. So under that circumstance our office needs to develop the specific retention policy”. This mens that, the use of records regulatory framework has fundamentally changed the way organizations work and operate in various sectors, including HRM. Along with technological advancements, organizations across industries have adopted various records regulatory framework solutions to improve efficiency and productivity in HRM administration processes. The role of policy and legislation in improving HRM administration efficiency is increasingly recognized as a key element in achieving organizational success in this digital era where HRM became very complex. The study findings are similary to Malekani and Mubofu (2023) who suggested that,compliance with records regulatory frameworks can also enhance organizational efficiency and effectiveness. By maintaining accurate and up-to-date records, organizations can make informed decisions, track employee performance, monitor compliance with policies and regulations, and demonstrate accountability to stakeholders. The study’s findings highlight the consensus among respondents regarding the significant contribution of records regulatory frameworks in human resources records management. By recognizing the importance of these frameworks and investing in robust recordkeeping practices, organizations can safeguard their employees’ information, mitigate risks, and improve overall operational performance. 5.0 Discussion The significance of records regulatory frameworks in human resources records management cannot be understated. These frameworks play a crucial role in ensuring the proper handling, storage, and disposal of sensitive employee information. By adhering to established regulations and guidelines, organizations can protect the privacy and confidentiality of their employees while also maintaining compliance with legal requirements. Accroding to Andoh (2023), records regulatory frameworks provide a structured approach to managing human resources records throughout their lifecycle. This includes processes for capturing, organizing, storing, retrieving, and ultimately disposing of records in a secure and efficient manner. By establishing clear policies and procedures for recordkeeping, organizations can minimize the risk of data breaches, unauthorized access, and loss of critical information. The study findings are similary to Manyeke and Malekani (2022) who suggested that,compliance with records regulatory frameworks can also enhance organizational efficiency and effectiveness. By maintaining accurate and up-to-date records, organizations can make informed decisions, track employee performance, monitor compliance with policies and regulations, and demonstrate accountability to stakeholders. The study’s findings highlight the consensus among respondents regarding the significant contribution of records regulatory frameworks in human resources records management. By recognizing the importance of these frameworks and investing in robust recordkeeping practices, organizations can safeguard their employees’ information, mitigate risks, and improve overall operational performance. A study carried by Freda (2014) on measurement of records management practices among the managerial staff of university education, Winneba Kumasi and Mampong campuses adopted qualitative study with a sample of 80 drawn from administration to carry out the study. Primary data was collected using questionnaires while secondary data was achieved through internet, journals and university information. Purposive sampling was used to identify respondents. SPSS was used in analysis with presentation done through pie charts, bar charts, frequency tables and percentages. The study noted an existence of policies and procedures that were used for creating and storing records. Documentation of records retention schedule was also accessible which disallowed extreme retention of records that could have an effect on retrieval and room problems. The study used two campuses from a university in Ghana whereas, this study focused on the submission of records management within the pension department of Kenya where the answer indicated that there are record management policies that staff were aware of, and were helping employees in discharging their duties. This study therefore confirms Freda (2014) study that there are policies used in creating, using and maintain of records. 6.0 Conclusion and Recommendations In conclusion, this study reveals that, there is significant contribution of the records regulatory frameworks in Human Resources records’ management. The findings demonstrate the contribution of Records legal framework as it operate as the foundation of HR programmes and activities to facilitate sound decisions and actions (0.53228), Records Management Policy 2011 give the roles and responsibilities of different personnel involved in human resources records management (0.52387), also it guide the successful creation, processing and preserving HR records (0.65413) and HR Records regulatory frameworks ensure that HR records are accessible and usable by those who need them These results underscore the significance of records regulatory frameworks in HR records management in public sector .This mens that, the use of records regulatory framework has fundamentally changed the way organizations work and operate in various sectors, including HRM. Along with technological advancements, organizations across industries have adopted various records regulatory framework solutions to improve efficiency and productivity in HRM administration processes. It is with this understanding that the recommendations that follow are made based on the finding its argued that human resources records management is faced with an uphill task of putting in place effective policies and regulation to guide their management. It has further argued that to enhance and improve the management of human resources records, training for registry staff should be introduced to equip them with knowledge and skills in electronic records management..Furthermore RAS Tabora should Digitize its records using modern technologies but before this is implemented, adequate research and consultation should be undertaken to determine the viability of these methods. The model in this study explains 38.3 of the variances in this study. Therefore, 61.7 variance still needed to be explained, future research could include other variables to assess the Impact of the newly proposed Freedom of Access to Information Law on personnel information held in public offices on account of personal privacy, particulary at RAS offices Tabora 7.0 References Andoh, R. (2023).“Effectiveness of human resource records management strategies at a university in Ghana”, Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, Vol. 71. Asamoah,J.(2018). Recordkeeping and disaster management in public sector institutions in Ghana https://www.emerald.com/insight/publication/issn/0956-5698 Aylwin, J., & Policzer, P. (2020, April). No Going Back. The Impact of ILO Convention 169 on Latin America in Comparative Perspective. In The Impact of ILO Convention (Vol. 169) Barigye,R.(2022). Records management practices: are all its factors associated with administrative staff performance in chartered private universities in Uganda? Bhatia, S., Douglas, E. 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