Process Evaluation of the Hazard Component of the Occupational Health and Safety Policy of Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, Tema

Abstract

Background: Ghana Port and Habours Authority (GPHA) recognizes and accepts its responsibility as a Port Authority to provide and maintain a safe and healthy work environment for all Employees, Port Users, Port Operators and the Community by implementing the occupational health and safety (OHS) policies to safeguard and eliminate environmental impact, health and safety risks of port operation. The objective of this study is to assess the implementation status and explore the implementation related obstacles and facilitators in the hazard component of the occupational health and safety policy on hazards at GPHA. Methods: This study assessed the hazard component of GPHA’s OHS policy through a mixed methods approach, with 35 participants across different organizational levels combining qualitative insights from interviews with quantitative analysis of hazard surveillance data. Results: The study revealed strong compliance with occupational hazard controls, with physical hazards, eye protection, and Fire Hazards related to Welding/Hot Work achieving 100% full implementation, and electrical hazards scoring 93.1%. Rotating and moving equipment (80.6%) and industrial vehicles (84.1%) showed good implementation but indicated gaps in maintenance and risk assessments. Chemical hazards (70.1%), vibration hazards (71.4%), and fire and explosion risks (87.9%) were within full implementation yet closer to the lower bound, requiring improvements in labeling, storage, vibration control, and mitigation strategies. Overall, hazard management is highly effective, though targeted interventions are needed to ensure consistent compliance across all categories. Conclusion: The study shows that GPHA has made significant progress in embedding OHSE practices, especially in physical safety and compliance, but implementation is uneven. Weaknesses remain in chemical and vibration hazard management, compounded by limited resources, low stakeholder engagement, and inconsistent inclusion of contract staff. Without targeted interventions, these gaps could undermine the long-term effectiveness and sustainability of the OHSE policy