By Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) has raised concerns over occupational health risks among workers involved in physically demanding port operations, with research indicating that about 45% of its heavy-duty operational staff experienced low-back pain.
Senior Medical Officer at the GPHA Clinic and Deputy Head of Health Services at GPHA Tema, Dr Emmanuel Mintah-Benyin, disclosed this at a media forum organised by the Authority.
He said the finding was based on a study he conducted in 2022 as part of his Master of Public Health programme.
According to Dr Mintah-Benyin, the nature of port operations exposes workers to several factors that can contribute to musculoskeletal problems, including strenuous and repetitive activities, prolonged sitting, poor posture and age-related risks.
He explained that low-back pain is not the only occupational health concern among port workers, with hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol also identified as conditions requiring attention.
He attributed some of these risks to demanding work schedules, irregular eating patterns, workplace stress and unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Dr Mintah-Benyin further identified workplace accidents as a major concern in port operations, particularly incidents involving moving vehicles, poor visibility during night operations and other hazardous working conditions.
He said seafarers face additional occupational challenges because of prolonged periods at sea, difficult weather conditions and security threats, including piracy and robbery.
Extended periods away from family and normal social environments, he added, could also contribute to mental stress, fatigue and exhaustion among seafarers.
Dr Mintah-Benyin urged workers to take persistent symptoms seriously, particularly recurring back pain, fatigue, breathing difficulties and changes in concentration or emotional wellbeing.
He warned that untreated back pain could worsen over time and potentially result in serious spinal problems, reduced mobility and the need for extensive medical intervention.
He called for stronger occupational health programmes, regular health surveillance and workplace interventions to reduce exposure to preventable risks.
These measures, he said, should include ergonomic workplace design, appropriate personal protective equipment and adequate training for workers.
Dr Mintah-Benyin also recommended that employers prioritise the hierarchy of controls by eliminating or substituting hazards where possible, introducing engineering controls, adjusting work schedules and reassigning workers whose health conditions make particular duties unsafe.
He disclosed that the GPHA had introduced measures aimed at improving employee health and reducing fatigue, including quarterly health walks, an employee gym and a three-tier shift system.
He stressed that workers’ health is closely linked to workplace safety, productivity and their overall quality of life within the maritime industry.
Dr Mintah-Benyin therefore encouraged port workers to undergo regular health screening and seek medical attention when symptoms persist, rather than waiting until a condition becomes severe.
“Your health is the most valuable tool you have; take charge of it. Pay attention to your body, don’t ignore persistent signs, and don’t wait until you feel sick to get screened,” he advised.
