Staff Undergo Fire Safety Awareness Training

The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), las week, organised a four-day Fire Safety Awareness Training programme for its staff. The training, held at the GSA premises, was aimed at equipping staff with essential knowledge on fire prevention, fire control and workplace safety practices. The training team from the Ghana National Fire Service, led by Divisional Officer Obosu M. Ebenezer, was welcomed on behalf of management by the Occupational Health, Safety and Environment (OHSE) Officer, Mr. Prince Nyarko, who also served as the facilitator for the programme. In his presentation, Divisional Officer Ebenezer emphasised the need to prioritise safety over security. He explained fire as a chemical reaction resulting from the combination of three elements, fuel, oxygen and heat, noting that fire ignites when these elements come together in the right proportion, and that removing any one of them extinguishes it. He also outlined common causes of fire outbreaks and cautioned staff against the use of faulty gas regulators, stressing that gas leakages can have severe consequences, including loss of life. He recounted incidents where negligence had led to fatalities. As part of the training, staff were introduced to various fire-fighting equipment, including fire blankets, fire buckets, fire extinguishers and fire hose reels. The equipment was displayed for easy identification and explanation. He also took staff through the different classes of fire and the appropriate extinguishers for each. Highlighting key safety practices, he advised that fire extinguishers should be visible and easily accessible, the correct type of extinguisher should be used for each class of fire, emergency exits must be kept clear at all times, and electrical safety must be strictly observed in the workplace. Divisional Officer Ebenezer also stressed life safety and the importance of good housekeeping in promoting workplace safety. He underscored the need for staff to be familiar with their work environment, observe precautionary measures and protect themselves from potential hazards. He concluded with a briefing on fire evacuation procedures to follow during emergencies. The training sessions featured an interactive question-and-answer segment, during which Divisional Officer Ebenezer clarified misconceptions and provided further insights into fire safety. Due to the large staff strength, the practical sessions were conducted in batches across the various Blocks. The GNFS personnel demonstrated safe fire suppression methods using fire extinguishers, fire balls, fire blankets and water.