By Mackie M. Jalloh
Freetown, Sierra Leone – April 25, 2025 – Africa Global Logistics (AGL) Freetown Terminal marked the World Day for Safety and Health at Work by engaging its staff, partners, and stakeholders in a reflection on the terminal’s commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards and reducing workplace accidents. This year’s observance focused on the shared responsibility to ensure a safe working environment, honoring both past lessons and future progress.
The event opened with a somber moment led by AGL’s Safety Officer, Patrick B. Sannoh, as he honored the lives lost in two tragic workplace accidents at the terminal: one involving an MSC staff member in June 2024 and another in January 2025. Sannoh used the occasion to remind the attendees of the grave consequences of workplace safety lapses, stating, “These accidents underscore the need to prioritize safety in all aspects of our operations. Our ultimate goal is to ensure zero fatalities and zero accidents.” He called on employees to shift their mindset from compliance-driven actions to a proactive, growth-oriented approach to safety.
Reflecting on safety culture, Sannoh highlighted the importance of reporting near-misses, viewing it as a critical tool in accident prevention. “Proactive reporting is not just a duty; it’s an opportunity to save lives,” he emphasized, stressing that everyone at the terminal should be vigilant and take ownership of their safety responsibilities.
A key part of the event was a dialogue with external stakeholders, including a representative from ProTec, who emphasized the role of technology in modernizing safety protocols. The representative pointed to advancements in predictive analytics and surveillance technologies as tools that could complement human effort in safeguarding workers. However, they also reminded attendees that technology, while useful, cannot replace the human responsibility of ensuring a culture of safety. “Artificial intelligence and surveillance can enhance safety measures, but it’s ultimately up to us to act with responsibility and foresight,” the ProTec spokesperson explained.
Staff participation in the event highlighted the importance of shared responsibility. One participant acknowledged that while human error can never be fully eradicated, consistent adherence to safety protocols and mutual vigilance can significantly reduce risk. Another employee raised concerns about the inconsistent safety practices of subcontractors, urging management to enforce a uniform safety culture across all operational levels. This sentiment was echoed by a project representative who suggested that broader engagement with external partners would strengthen the safety culture.
A major topic of discussion was overcoming resistance to change. “Safety is not negotiable; it’s our collective duty,” Sannoh stressed. Addressing concerns about potential backlash for reporting safety hazards, a project representative noted that fear of blame often deters workers from speaking up. “Fear is a major barrier to a safe work environment,” they said. A NCO representative added that it is vital for workers to follow safety protocols, even in the absence of supervisors, stating, “You must stand firm and follow safety rules, no matter what.”
Suleiman Kabia further clarified the importance of reporting near-misses and safety hazards, emphasizing that even minor incidents could lead to major accidents if ignored. “We are not here to punish; we are here to educate and protect,” he explained, reminding all employees that hazard identification is a collective responsibility.
The event also featured a demonstration on the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). The session addressed common complaints about PPE discomfort, reinforcing its life-saving importance. “PPE is not just about protection; it’s about survival,” said Sannoh.
In his closing remarks, Captain Iadjanko Kokan, AGL’s Country Manager, reinforced the terminal’s commitment to fostering a culture of safety, where respect for life is paramount. “We have lost two lives, and we cannot afford to lose any more. Safety is not just a policy, but a promise to each other,” Kokan declared. He encouraged staff to correct unsafe behaviors, not out of anger but out of care for their colleagues. “Everyone deserves to go home safe. That is non-negotiable.”
- AGL Freetown Terminal’s observance of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work highlighted the importance of fostering a safety-first mindset, driven by leadership, accountability, and the collective responsibility of every individual on the terminal.
