NP SL observed World Safety day with renewed commitment to workplace protection and welfare of workers. The Chief Executive Officer of NP (SL) Limited, Dr. Ing. Mohamed Kanu, has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to workplace safety, staff welfare, and continuous improvement, as the company joined global celebrations marking World Day for Safety and Health at Work.
Speaking at a commemorative event attended by representatives from the National Fire Force, Sierra Leone Police, contractors, and staff, Mr.Kanu emphasized that safety remains a top priority for management.
“We place a lot of premium on health and safety at work,” he said, highlighting ongoing efforts to secure and maintain ISO 45001:2018 certification an international standard for occupational health and safety management systems. According to him, the certification process involves annual audits to ensure compliance, adding that the company is determined to sustain the standard.
Kanu also commended staff across departments, including communications, human resources, and safety officers, for their role in organizing the event and promoting a culture of safety.
He stressed the importance of professionalism among frontline workers, particularly drivers and field staff, noting that appearance and discipline influence customer confidence. “When you appear neat and well-dressed, customers take you seriously. But if you appear untidy, suspicion arises immediately,” he cautioned.
The CEO further called for continuous improvement in operations, stating that each year must reflect progress over the previous one. He also acknowledged the risks undertaken by drivers, particularly those transporting hazardous materials, and praised their dedication.
Speaking at the event, NP’s Human Resources and Administration Manager, Mrs. Georgiana Williams, underscored the importance of maintaining a healthy psychosocial work environment.
She identified key workplace challenges such as heavy workloads, unfair treatment, stress, and harassment as major psychosocial hazards that can affect employee well-being and productivity.
“To address these, we promote responsible communication, inclusion, and clear job roles,” she explained. “We also encourage staff to speak up through suggestion systems and open dialogue with management.”
Williams added that initiatives such as staff engagement, wellness activities, and workplace exercise programs are helping to reduce stress and improve overall health among employees.
She further urged supervisors and colleagues to regularly check on one another’s well-being, noting that simple conversations can help identify and address personal or professional challenges affecting staff performance.
Representing Bulk Road Vehicle (BRV) drivers, Sheku Tarawally welcomed management’s safety initiatives, especially regular toolbox meetings and defensive driving training. He noted that these measures have significantly improved drivers’ awareness of road safety practices, including speed control and the dangers of mobile phone use while driving.
“Toolbox sessions help us understand the risks and how to manage them. Defensive driving training has also helped many of us to be more careful on the road,” Tarawally said.
He, however, appealed for further improvements in working conditions, including timely provision of uniforms and better welfare facilities.
The event also drew participation from the National Fire Force, whose presence underscored the importance of emergency preparedness and fire safety in industrial operations.
The commemoration forms part of NP’s broader strategy to strengthen its safety culture, enhance staff welfare, and align with international best practices in occupational health and safety.
As the company looks ahead, management reiterated its commitment to building a safer, more responsive, and more professional work environment for all employees.
