The Member of Parliament for Salaga South, Hon. Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahimiah, has called for stronger regulation and enhanced safety measures for workers involved in the construction and installation of high-rise billboards across the country, warning that Ghana’s current system exposes many young artisans to serious risks.
Speaking to the media, Hon. Ibrahimiah commended the Member of Parliament for Domeabra-Obom, Hon. Isaac Awuku, for drawing attention to the issue. She observed that critical matters affecting industry and business operations are often overlooked, despite their potential impact on public safety and worker welfare.
Hon. Ibrahimiah noted that the increasing number of towering billboards and high-rise structures along major highways including the Tema Motorway and the N1 Highway presents a growing challenge. She stressed that Ghana has yet to put in place the necessary regulatory requirements to ensure the safety of the young people who build and maintain these installations.
She added that many of the massive billboards currently mounted display a variety of content, ranging from funeral announcements and wedding posters to church conventions and Muslim events. Despite their prominence, she said, the regulatory framework governing their construction remains weak.
Hon. Ibrahimiah urged the Ministry of Housing and the Ministry of Local Government to work collaboratively with local assemblies, who are responsible for issuing billboard permits. She disclosed the need for these assemblies to demand comprehensive documentation from businesses seeking permits, especially in relation to safety standards and insurance coverage for workers.
According to her, many businesses mistakenly view insurance as an unnecessary cost, when in reality it provides essential protection for both workers and companies. She stressed that artisans who work at height require reliable safety assurances and a fallback option in the event of accidents.
She revealed that when workers suffer injuries without insurance, the burden often falls on Members of Parliament, who become the primary source of support for affected families. This, she argued, is unsustainable and unfair.
Hon. Ibrahimiah called for immediate action to strengthen systems governing the installation of billboards and high-rise structures.
She concluded by urging all stakeholders to prioritize worker safety and ensure that appropriate regulations and protections are firmly in place to safeguard lives, businesses, and the public.
Source: Elvisanokyenews.com
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