Workplace health is non-negotiable—Dr. Pelpuo marks World Safety Day

The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Dr. Abdul Rashid Alhassan Pelpuo, has reaffirmed his dedication to improving occupational safety and health standards nationwide.

Speaking on the importance of workplace health and safety, Dr. Pelpuo emphasized that it is non-negotiable, as a safe and healthy working environment is vital for maximizing productivity.

He highlighted the need for ongoing enhancement of safety protocols, noting that such measures are critical not only for protecting workers but also for driving national development.

Dr. Pelpuo made these remarks while addressing stakeholders during the commemoration of World Safety Day, held under the theme: Emerging Technologies and their Impact on Workers’ Health and Safety.

“We will not compromise on worker safety and health, as these are non-negotiable issues. I’ve already held discussions with the inspector of factories and other key stakeholders to strengthen the OSH administration to the extent that I have set up a team to support the OSH and the administrator to make sure that we reach out to almost every factory, every place where workers are committed to doing the work, to make sure they are safe in the best of conditions. These engagements have been fruitful and insightful.”

Dr. Pelpuo also announced the launch of innovative, data-driven strategies designed to transform how health and safety complaints are addressed across all sectors of the Ghanaian economy.

“We are working collaboratively to develop a national framework that will ensure emerging technologies are not only harnessed for economic progress but are also aligned with the safety and dignity of the Ghanaian worker. And this will include enhancing workplace violence and hazard monitoring systems, digitalizing labor inspection processes, and strengthening data collection to inform responsive policy making,” he added.