Tema Tank Farm (TTF), a leading privately-owned petroleum depot in Ghana, has recently celebrated an impressive achievement: 2,000 days without a lost time injury (LTI). This milestone marks a pioneering moment in Ghana’s petroleum downstream industry, highlighting a commitment to safety that has been maintained since TTF began operations in 2012. The TTF operates the terminal through its parent company, Chase Logistics, which is part of the CH Group. The significance of this achievement is profound, as lost time injuries are a critical metric for organizations that prioritize employee health and safety. They are indicative of both immediate and long-term repercussions for affected individuals and the company itself, highlighting the importance of preventive measures and a robust safety culture within the workplace.
During the celebration event, Edem Boni, the Managing Director of TTF, emphasized the extraordinary nature of achieving such a record during active construction and operations at the terminal. He attributed this success to the commitment of all employees and stakeholders involved. The accomplishment provides reassurance to customers that TTF adheres to optimal safety standards in handling petroleum products, reassuring all partners involved. This statement resonates deeply within the context of the industry, where hazards are inherent, and the capability of managing operations without injuries sets TTF apart from its peers globally. Boni underscored the importance of their slogan, “we mean safety, all accidents are preventable,” as a guiding principle in their operations.
Dr. Daniel Amoah, the Executive Director of CH Group, acknowledged that the 2,000-day achievement is indicative of the dedication, vigilance, and teamwork of every person within the organization. He framed this milestone as a representation of the shared responsibility for safety and the importance of maintaining a proactive safety culture. Amoah’s reflections pointed to the fact that achieving this level of safety is not a one-off success but rather the product of continuous efforts and adherence to safety protocols. Recognizing the collective achievement of the entire workforce, he encouraged a commitment to further improvement, ensuring that TTF continues to build upon this noteworthy foundation.
Emmanuel Asumani Ofosu, the Safety Manager at TTF, highlighted the importance of predictive and preventive safety philosophies in their operational strategy. He credited a supportive leadership structure that emphasizes thorough safety checks and protocols for the firm’s success in maintaining high safety standards. This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Patrick Kwaku Ofori, CEO of the Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors, who regarded TTF’s achievement as a reflection of serious commitment to safety excellence, rather than mere compliance. Ofori recognized the importance of effective leadership and skilled recruitment as central to establishing a strong safety culture, acknowledging the competence demonstrated by both the TTF and CH Group.
Further examining the regulatory aspects, Naomi Chartey, Customs Officer-In-Charge at the Ghana Revenue Authority, addressed the collaborative role of customs in ensuring safe and efficient depot operations. Chartey stated that customs’ responsibilities extend beyond mere revenue collection and encompass regulatory compliance, safety measures, and environmental standards. The collaboration with other agencies, such as the fire service and the Environmental Protection Agency, has been pivotal in ensuring that depots operate under well-documented and approved safety practices. This integrated approach is fundamental to sustaining safe operations within the petroleum sector.
In conclusion, the celebration of 2,000 days without a lost time injury at Tema Tank Farm is not only a significant milestone for the company itself but also a landmark achievement for Ghana’s petroleum downstream industry. It demonstrates a strong commitment to safety and operational excellence that extends across all levels of the organization. The recognition of dedicated employees and the emphasis on teamwork highlights the culture of safety ingrained at TTF, ensuring that safety is prioritized in all activities. With ongoing vigilance, adherence to high safety standards, and effective leadership, TTF sets a precedent for the industry and aims to continue its legacy of safety, seeking to extend this commendable record well into the future.
