The importance of education and awareness in preventing workplace accidents, particularly in high-risk sectors like mining, cannot be overstated. This was emphasized by the Chief Inspector of Mines at the Minerals Commission, Richard Kofi Adjei, during the National Conference of the Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality Practitioners Association of Ghana (SHEQPA-GH) in Accra.
Adjei highlighted the need for continuous training on workplace safety protocols, stating that safety officers must actively engage staff on the protocols that keep everyone safe. He emphasized that workplace safety is not a one-time campaign but a continuous responsibility that should be reinforced by leadership, safety professionals, and all staff.
Innovation was also a key focus, with Adjei urging companies not to let financial constraints hinder the adoption of artificial intelligence and digital solutions that can save lives. He emphasized that the cost of safety equipment and systems should never override health and safety considerations.
Deputy Chief Inspector of Mines, Desmond Boahene, echoed the call for safety inclusivity, especially for contractors working in high-risk environments. He stressed the importance of ensuring that contractors are protected just as much as permanent staff, emphasizing that safety should be universal.
Furthermore, Boahene called for systems that reward adherence to safety practices, stating that motivation and accountability play a crucial role in building a strong safety culture. The President of SHEQPA-GH, Akua Berantuo-Armooh, emphasized the need for cross-sector collaboration to promote safer workplaces, highlighting the importance of the full support of general managers and department heads.
Berantuo-Armooh also addressed the mining sector, acknowledging its solid regulatory framework but expressing concern over ongoing fatalities. She called for the adoption of technologies that help proactively manage risks and emphasized the need for tailor-made safety procedures that reflect Ghana’s unique working conditions and cultural realities.
The conference also featured a presentation by Ing. Dr. Koduah Dapaah, Managing Partner at K+MNJ Consults, who shared insights on the theme of the event: “Revolutionizing Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalization at Work.” He underscored the need for modern safety tools and strong team coordination to reduce workplace fatalities.
Overall, the inaugural SHEQPA-GH conference was a platform for dialogue, innovation, and action on workplace safety in Ghana. It brought together policymakers and industry professionals and is expected to become an annual event that drives progress in ensuring the safety and health of workers across various sectors.
