The Petroleum Hub Development Corporation organised a fire prevention and safety training for its staff on Friday, March 13, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen workplace safety and operational preparedness.
Facilitated by ADO I. Shem Agbetor of the Ghana National Fire Service, the training aimed to equip employees with essential knowledge and practical skills to prevent fires and respond effectively to emergencies, in line with PHDC’s core values of safety and sustainability.
During the session, participants were introduced to the three key elements that cause fire, which are heat, fuel, and oxygen, commonly known as the fire triangle. Heat serves as the ignition source, fuel represents combustible materials, and oxygen supports combustion.
The training also highlighted common fire risks in homes and workplaces, including charging mobile phones under pillows or beds, overloading electrical sockets, faulty electrical wiring, gas leaks, and unsafe kitchen practices such as using mobile phones while cooking.
Participants were further educated on the different classes of fire, which determine the appropriate extinguishing methods. These include Class A fires involving ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, and plastics; Class B fires involving flammable liquids such as petrol and oil; Class C fires involving gases; Class D fires involving combustible metals; and Class K fires involving cooking oils and fats.
The facilitators demonstrated safe evacuation procedures, guiding staff on how to respond during a fire outbreak by raising the alarm immediately, moving calmly to designated emergency exits, avoiding panic and congestion, and assembling at safe points outside the building.
To reinforce the lessons, staff participated in a hands-on practical exercise in which they practised the three major methods of fire extinction: cooling, which reduces the fire’s temperature (usually with water); starvation, which removes the fuel source; and smothering, which cuts off the oxygen supply to the fire.
The training gave participants firsthand experience handling fire extinguishers and responding safely to small fires.
In brief remarks, the Chief Executive of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation, Dr Toni Aubynn, stated that safety is not merely one of the Corporation’s core values but a lived experience.
He noted that the initiative forms part of PHDC’s ongoing commitment to strengthening a culture of safety awareness, prevention, and compliance while ensuring staff remain equipped to protect lives and property in emergencies.
He also commended the officers of GNFS for facilitating the training and providing PHDC staff with detailed insight into fire prevention and control.
In case of emergencies, the public is advised to contact the Ghana National Fire Service on 192 (or the national emergency number 112).