Abstract:
The work environment of Ghanaian local auto artisans has over the years consisted of various
hazards that have dire health and safety implications. This study examined the extent to which
the artisans comply with relevant safety regulations as spelt out in the Factories, Offices and
Shops Act, 1970 (Act 328) of Ghana. The study also investigated the prevalence of health and
safety challenges and work related injuries among Ghanaian local artisans. The mode of
treating health and safety incidents experienced by the artisans was also investigated. One
hundred and fifty artisans, comprising 141 males and 9 females were studied in a descriptive
survey. The results showed that the work environment of the artisans was not very congenial
and most of them did not comply with many of the safety regulations. Several incidents and
injuries were experienced by the artisans and a great number of them also reported
work-related health challenges. It was also found that about 38% of the health and safety
challenges were treated at the hospital and more than 48% were self-treated by the artisans.
The study concluded that the noncompliance of safe work procedures accounted for most of
the health and safety incidents the artisans experienced. Among others, it was recommended
that the Inspectorate Directorate of the Ministry of Employment and Labor Relations should
extend its inspections and health and safety compliance and education functions to the
operations of auto artisans and other informal work settings.
