Fuel stations in Ghana, often located in high-traffic areas, have become dangerous workplaces for attendants, especially due to the physical hazards posed by motorcycles and vehicles. The proximity of these fuel stations to busy roads makes it common for vehicles, including motorcycles, to interact closely with fuel dispensers and workers. Unfortunately, this has led to a growing safety concern, as accidents involving vehicles and fuel attendants have become more frequent, with significant risks of injury or even fatalities.
The dynamic nature of fuel stations, where vehicles are constantly moving in and out, combined with a lack of protective infrastructure, poses a serious threat to fuel attendants. Motorcycle riders, in particular, are at a heightened risk because they have minimal protection compared to occupants of cars or trucks. Their vulnerability increases the likelihood of accidents such as collisions with other vehicles or even direct impacts with fuel dispensers, resulting in severe consequences.
Recent incidents in Ghana highlight this issue, where motorcyclists have crashed into fuel dispensers or collided with vehicles in fuel stations, raising concerns about the adequacy of safety measures in these environments. Notably, one of the most common accidents occurs when motorcycles crash into attendants while they are refueling, leading to serious injuries, such as crushed legs and broken bones. These accidents have opened up discussions on the need for stronger safety protocols, training programs for attendants, and stricter traffic regulations to curb the hazards faced by both workers and customers at fuel stations.
Statistics related to motorcycle accidents paint a grim picture, with motorcyclists being 29 times more likely to die in collisions compared to car passengers. This figure is alarming, and when applied to the context of fuel stations, it underscores the critical need for safety interventions. Furthermore, drivers, whether of motorcycles or larger vehicles, often underestimate the risks associated with operating around fuel dispensers, contributing to a rise in accidents at these sites.
The current state of safety measures at fuel stations in Ghana is insufficient to adequately address these risks. The lack of protective barriers between attendants and moving vehicles, coupled with a limited understanding of emergency protocols, creates a hazardous work environment. As a result, regulatory bodies and fuel station operators are increasingly being called upon to implement effective safety strategies that prioritize the well-being of workers and customers alike.
In addition to the need for infrastructure improvements, there is also a growing call for public awareness campaigns to educate drivers about the importance of driving safely in and around fuel stations. These campaigns should focus on alerting drivers to the dangers of speeding and reckless driving when near fuel dispensers. Educating the public about the risks can help create a safer environment and reduce the number of accidents.
Despite the clear risks, fuel station attendants in Ghana often receive minimal safety training. Many attendants are not equipped with the necessary skills to manage emergency situations effectively, such as fuel spills or vehicle collisions. This lack of preparedness further exacerbates the dangers they face daily. Safety drills, coupled with proper personal protective equipment (PPE), could play a crucial role in minimizing injuries and fatalities resulting from vehicle-related accidents at fuel stations.
Another critical issue is the limited enforcement of existing safety regulations at fuel stations. Although some fuel stations adhere to safety standards, many fall short of meeting the basic requirements needed to ensure the safety of their workers. This highlights the need for stronger regulatory oversight and regular inspections by safety authorities to ensure that fuel stations comply with established safety protocols.
To address the growing risks, stakeholders such as the National Road Safety Authority, Environmental Protection Agency and Department of factories inspectorate must work collaboratively with fuel station operators. A task force focused on evaluating high-risk areas within fuel stations should be established to assess current practices and recommend necessary safety improvements. This collaboration will also be vital in ensuring that fuel stations meet safety compliance standards and provide adequate training to their attendants.
Infrastructure changes at fuel stations could be one of the most effective ways to enhance safety. The installation of protective barriers, designated walkways for attendants, and better signage to control vehicle movement could significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. In some countries, fuel stations are designed with reinforced structures to protect attendants from being struck by vehicles, and similar models could be implemented in Ghana to address the current challenges.
Moreover, improving road conditions around fuel stations would also contribute to overall safety. Issues such as poorly maintained roads, lack of road signage, and absence of speed bumps near fuel stations make it easier for vehicles to lose control and crash into attendants or fuel dispensers. By addressing these infrastructural gaps, Ghana can reduce the number of vehicle-related accidents at fuel stations and improve safety for both workers and patrons.
The role of occupational health and safety (OHS) in addressing these hazards cannot be overstated. Fuel station workers should be mandated to undergo regular OHS training, which includes understanding the risks associated with fuel dispensing and the protocols to follow in case of emergencies. Fuel station operators should also be required to provide PPE for their attendants, such as high-visibility vests and protective footwear, to reduce the severity of injuries in the event of an accident.
In conclusion, the physical hazards posed by vehicles and motorcycles to fuel attendants in Ghana's fuel stations represent a significant safety issue that requires urgent attention. Enhanced safety protocols, infrastructure improvements, increased regulatory compliance, and public awareness are all critical components in mitigating these risks. By adopting these measures, fuel stations in Ghana can create a safer working environment for attendants, reduce the number of accidents, and protect the lives of both workers and customers.
BY Collins Odame
PhD Candidate at UMAT
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Interesting problem highlighted in occupational health and safety in ghana