Ghana- 1st- Health and social care

By Daniel Morris | 4. November 2025

CHAPTER: 3 BUSINESS AND HUMAN RIGHTS SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS

3.3.4 Occupational Health and Safety Regulations & Policies

The Constitution guarantees the right to work under satisfactory, safe and healthy conditions. Thus, government has an obligation to safeguard the health, safety, and welfare of all persons in employment, especially within the business sector. However, incidence of occupational-related accidents, and ill-health emanating from hazardous work are worth noting among all the sectors. Meanwhile, the Factories, Offices and Shops Act, 1970 (Act 328) which is the main legislation for the enforcement of occupational safety and health standards, needs review because it is obsolete and not fit for purpose.

Occupational Health and Safety issues relevant to business and human rights include absence of and non-adherence to safety protocols and standards; inadequate or no provision of protective gear; and inadequate sanitary facilities.

3.3.7 Key Population (KPs)

“The 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana guarantees the fundamental human rights and freedoms of all persons, including vulnerable Populations (VP) mostly referred to as Key population. People Living with HIV (PLHIV), people affected by TB, People Who Inject Drugs (PWID), persons incarcerated in prisons, sex workers, and transgender individuals, are among a group of people who face significant challenges within the business environment due to prevailing social stigmas, discrimination, and institutional constraints. Although Ghana has made efforts to address such challenges through the enactment of laws⁴⁵, policy interventions⁴⁶ and commitment through funding for addressing the human rights related barriers which affect their ability to secure employment, access healthcare, and engage in economic activities, there remains more room for improvement. Business and human rights violations against VP are exhibited in the following ways:

  • Stigma and discrimination
  • Denial of access to healthcare Negative social attitude
  • Pre-employment health status
  • Legal obstacles
  • Intimidation by law enforcement agencies
  • Workplace harassment
  • Violence and other abuses”