Occupational Health and Safety Practices Among Workers at Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) In Tema in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana

Abstract

Background: Occupational health and safety (OHS) is essential in high-risk environments such as ports and harbours, where workers are exposed to various hazards including physical, chemical, and psychosocial risks. The maritime sector's complex operations pose significant OHS risks, and despite the critical role of ports in economic development, there are limited context-specific studies on OHS practices in Ghanaian port settings, especially at GPHA Tema. Aim: This study aimed to assess occupational health and safety practices among workers at the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) in Tema, focusing on their knowledge, utilization of safety resources, and factors influencing adherence to safety protocols. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed involving 323 workers across six departments within GPHA-Tema. Stratified random sampling ensured departmental representation. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using STATA software, with bivariate and multivariate logistic regression used to identify factors influencing OHS adherence. Findings: The results revealed that 51.7% of respondents demonstrated good knowledge of OHS measures, while 53.9% showed good utilization of safety resources. Key motivators for OHS adherence included supervisor enforcement and personal awareness. However, gaps were identified in areas such as formal training participation, access to written safety manuals, and awareness of biological hazards. Support from management and perceived adequacy of resources were significant predictors of compliance. Conclusion: While knowledge and basic adherence to OHS practices at GPHA Tema are encouraging, substantial gaps remain in training access, resource utilization, and policy enforcement. Strengthening training programs, improving accessibility of safety materials, and fostering a safety-oriented organizational culture are recommended to enhance workplace safety.