Abstract:
The oil and gas industry is deemed as one of the most risky sectors globally,
posing several health and safety hazards to employees in their line of duty.
This study therefore examined the health and safety practices, challenges
and strategies to mitigate these challenges within the Takoradi Port of
Ghana. Using a quantitative approach and a descriptive design, the study
collected data from 200 randomly sampled respondents and the data was
analysed, using tables frequencies, means and relative importance index.
Among other things, the study found that health and safety practices within
the sector at the Port include the provision of PPE, emergency assembly
points, availability of first aid kits and clinical services, availability of alarm
systems, safety information communication systems, visitor safety training
and adequate safety facilities. However, these practices are also confronted
with challenges such as lack of awareness on health and safety measures,
poor risk assessment management process, insufficient training of site
personnel on health and safety issues, lack of proper technology to monitor
and assess health and safety trends and indicators, lack of legal and
regulatory framework and lack of access to materials and PPE. It was also
revealed that some strategies that can be devised to mitigate these
challenges in the oil and gas sector include; improving the working
conditions of employees, sensitizing and building the knowledge level of
workers, effective health and safety regulations and capacity building of the
regulatory institutions. The study, therefore, recommends that the
regulation and enforcement of the safety protocols be implemented
effectively and rigorously.
