Celement Barffo-3rd CS Report

3rd Community Service Report 2025

Topic: Empowering Workers at Akim Osorase Palm Oil Production Center.

Date: Tuesday, April 15th, 2025.

Location: Akim Osorase Palm Oil Production Center (Krama), Eastern Region, Ghana.

Executive Summary

This report details my third (3rd) community service initiative as a JEQ Foundation Scholar at the Akim Osorase Palm Oil Production Center (Krama).

The day involved engaging directly with the workers, fostering a deeper understanding of their operational environment and challenges. The primary focus of the service was to deliver practical education and awareness on crucial aspects of occupational health and safety, as well as responsible waste management practices. Through interactive conversations and participatory observation, this initiative aimed to empower the workers with knowledge that contributes to a safer, healthier, and more sustainable work environment. The project was carefully coordinated with the management to ensure alignment with the center's needs and priorities, with safety being paramount in all activities undertaken.

1. Introduction and Background

As a JEQ Foundation Scholar, community service forms an integral part of my commitment to contributing positively to society. Recognizing the significant role that local industries play in community development, I identified the Akim Osorase Palm Oil Production Center (Krama) as an opportunity to engage with a vital segment of the workforce. This center, a prominent entity in the region's agricultural processing sector, provides livelihoods for numerous individuals. This

service aimed to move beyond mere observation and actively involve me in daily operations, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of the workers' experiences and the challenges they face.

2. Objectives of the Community Service

The primary objectives of this community service initiative were to:

❖ Understand the operational processes and identify key challenges faced by the workers at the Akim Osorase Palm Oil Production Center.

❖ Educate workers on fundamental principles of occupational health and safety, including hazard identification, risk mitigation, proper equipment usage, and emergency procedures.

❖ Raise awareness about the importance of waste management, encompassing recycling practices, proper waste disposal methods, and the potential for environmental and economic benefits.

3. Activities Undertaken

The day's activities were structured to facilitate both learning and engagement:

● Immersion and Observation: I spent the initial part of the day actively observing the various stages of the palm oil production process, from the initial processing of the palm fruits to the final product. This hands-on observation provided valuable context for understanding the potential hazards and existing safety practices.

● Interactive Discussions on Occupational Health and Safety: I engaged in extensive conversations with the workers, creating an open forum for them to share their experiences and concerns related to their health and safety at work. The discussions covered:

● Identification of potential hazards: We collaboratively identified potential risks associated with different tasks, such as handling machinery, working with hot substances, and potential ergonomic issues.

● Proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): I emphasized the importance of consistently using appropriate PPE, including gloves, safety goggles, and protective footwear, and demonstrated their correct usage.

● Emergency procedures: I outlined basic emergency protocols, including first aid

awareness and evacuation procedures, in case of workplace accidents.

● Benefits of adherence: I highlighted the tangible benefits of adhering to safety protocols, such as a reduction in workplace accidents, minimized injuries, improved overall well-being, and increased productivity due to a safer working environment.

● Education on Waste Management: Recognizing the environmental impact of industrial processes, I conducted an educational session on responsible waste management:

● Proper waste disposal methods: We discussed the significance of segregating waste and utilizing appropriate disposal methods to prevent pollution and maintain a cleaner environment.

4. Coordination with Management

Before the community service day, I proactively coordinated with the management of the Akim Osorase Palm Oil Production Center. This crucial step ensured that my intended activities were well-received, aligned with their operational needs, and did not disrupt their daily workflow. The

management expressed their appreciation for the initiative and provided valuable insights into the specific areas where they felt educational support would be most beneficial for their workers.

This collaborative approach ensured the relevance and impact of the service.

5. Safety Considerations

Safety was the paramount consideration throughout the entire community service endeavor.

Before engaging in any observation or interaction, I ensured I understood the potential risks associated with the production environment. I adhered strictly to any safety guidelines provided by the management and workers. I refrained from operating any machinery without explicit guidance and focused on observation and verbal communication during potentially hazardous tasks. My commitment to safety ensured a secure environment for both myself and the workers.

6. Outcomes and Observations

The community service day yielded several positive outcomes and insightful observations:

● Increased Awareness: The workers demonstrated a keen interest in the topics of

occupational health and safety and waste management. The interactive nature of the discussions fostered a better understanding of the principles and their practical application.

● Positive Engagement: The open and conversational approach facilitated a comfortable environment for the workers to ask questions and share their perspectives. This two-way communication was crucial for effective knowledge transfer and relationship building.

● Appreciation for the Initiative: The management and workers expressed their gratitude for the time and effort invested in addressing these important aspects of their work environment. They acknowledged the value of the information shared and expressed a willingness to implement the suggested practices.

● Identification of Specific Needs: Through the interactions, I gained a clearer

understanding of the specific challenges and needs of the workers concerning safety protocols and waste disposal practices within their unique operational context. This insight will be valuable for future potential interventions.

9. Conclusion

This community service at the Akim Osorase Palm Oil Production Center was a valuable and enriching experience. It provided a platform to directly engage with the workers, understand their challenges, and contribute meaningfully to their knowledge base in crucial areas like occupational health and safety and waste management. The positive reception from both the

management and the workers underscores the importance and impact of such initiatives. By prioritizing collaboration, education, and safety, this service aimed to empower the individuals who contribute significantly to the local economy and promote a more sustainable and responsible operational environment. I am grateful for the opportunity provided by the JEQ Foundation to undertake such impactful community service and remain committed to contributing positively to the well-being of our communities. Thank you.