Monday 12th May 2025     Source:

Accra, Ghana - Monday May 19, 2025 -

The Ghana Institute of Safety and Environmental Professionals (GhISEP) is concerned about the health of the work force and the general public.

Given the confirmed cases of MPOX (Monkeypox) in Accra by the Ghana Health Service, it is important that your organization implement proactive measures to protect both staff and the general public.

Here are guidelines your company can adopt:
1. Workplace Hygiene and Infection Control
• Hand hygiene stations: Install hand-washing facilities or hand sanitizers at all your company’s offices, customer service centers, and worksites.
• Surface disinfection: Frequently clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces like counters, doorknobs, tools, and workstations.
• Use of PPE: Provide gloves, masks, and (where necessary) face shields to field staff and those in close contact with the public.
2. Health Surveillance and Reporting
• Early detection: Train staff to identify symptoms of MPOX (e.g., fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes).
• Encourage reporting: Create a confidential system for staff to report suspected symptoms or exposure.
• Medical referral: Ensure prompt referral of symptomatic individuals to health facilities.

3. Education and Awareness
• Staff sensitization: Organize regular briefings or training on MPOX, its transmission, prevention, and company’s response plan.
• Public education: Use your company’s communication channels (e.g., social media, SMS, notices at service centers) to inform customers about MPOX prevention.

4. Access Control and Social Distancing
• Limit in-person interactions: Promote the use of online platforms for bill payment, fault reporting, and customer support.
• Controlled entry: Implement temp at company’s premises.
2 • Reduce crowding: Manage queues and customer flow at offices through appointment systems or staggered services.
5. Support for Affected Staff
• Sick leave policy: Ensure that staff can take time off if infected or exposed, without fear of losing income or position.
• Quarantine support: Provide resources (food, medical help, transport) for staff under home or facility isolation.
6. Coordination with Health Authorities
• Stay updated: Maintain close communication with the Ghana Health Service for updates and guidance.
• Report cases: Promptly report any confirmed or suspected cases to healt authorities for contact tracing and containment.
7. Business Continuity Planning
• Review contingency plans: Ensure your company’s operations can continue safely with reduced staff or remote work if needed.
• Fieldwork protocols: Limit physical contact during on-site repairs; ensure teams have disinfectants and PPE.

These steps not only demonstrate your organization’s commitment to safety but also help build public trust during a health emergency. Safety Regards

For and on behalf of
Ghana Institute of Safety & Environmental Professionals -GhISEP
Signed
Miriam Eduful Engr Dr Mrs National President Release Date: May 19, 2025 Contact number: 0244977517 Ghana Institute of Safety and Environme Ghana Institute of Safety and Environmental Professionals (GhISEP) is the sole professional body for health, safety, and environmental professionals and practitioners in Ghana registered under the Professional Bodies Registration Decree, 1973(NRCD143) and a member of the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry (GHCCI). info@ghisep.org www.ghisep.or