By The Ghana National Gas Company (Ghana Gas) has achieved two prestigious International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) certifications. These certifications are ISO 14001 and ISO 45001. This achievement highlights its commitment to sustainable business practices and the highest safety standards in the energy sector.
The ISO 14001 certification is a globally recognised standard for Environmental Management Systems (EMS). It ensures that Ghana Gas integrates environmentally sustainable practices into its operations.
The ISO 45001 certification shows that the company observes the highest Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Management standards. It highlights their dedication to maintaining safety. This certification reflects their adherence to these standards. It demonstrates their commitment to maintaining safe and healthy work environments.
Certification
Dr Robert Kofi Lartey is the acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana Gas. He expressed pride at an announcement ceremony in Accra last Thursday. He was proud of the achievement. He commended the contributions of past and current leadership, staff, and the Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Operations Department.
“These certifications highlight our unwavering commitment to conducting business responsibly. We guarantee the well-being of our employees. We also reduce our environmental impact,” Dr Lartey stated.
He revealed that Ghana Gas embarked on its ISO certification journey on November 12, 2019. Nonetheless, they faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The company successfully obtained ISO 45001 certification on April 1, 2022. It then expanded its scope to secure ISO 14001 certification in early 2023.
Dr Lartey reaffirmed Ghana Gas’ commitment to continuous improvement. The company aligns its operations with national development goals. This includes President John Dramani Mahama’s 24-hour economy initiative.
He said that the company was taking its next steps. It was preparing for ISO 9001 certification. This certification focused on Quality Management Systems (QMS).
Challenges
The ISO Project Team Lead at Ghana Gas, Jasu Yahaya, recounted the challenges encountered during the certification process. He described them as valuable learning experiences.
“From managing a demanding change process and tackling complex tasks, I have gained invaluable skills. Leading a diverse team has also contributed significantly. These experiences have provided me with skills that will last a lifetime,” he said.
He emphasised that the dual ISO certification was not the culmination of Ghana Gas’ journey. Instead, it is the foundation for future milestones.
“As we move forward, we must build on this success and strive for even greater achievements.
I am confident that, together, we will elevate Ghana Gas to new heights,” he added.
Certification body
Ingrid Evelyn Keelson, a sales administrative support at DNV, commended Ghana Gas. DNV is an accredited third-party certification body that facilitated the process. She praised Ghana Gas for its commitment to excellence, quality, and continuous improvement.
“This achievement highlights the company’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards. It also reinforces its leadership in the industry,” she noted.
She further stated that the certification reflected Ghana Gas’ ability to consistently meet expectations. It also allows them to exceed the expectations of its customers, partners, and stakeholders.
Mrs Keelson added that DNV was honoured to have played a role in Ghana Gas’ journey. She said they were inspired by the company’s vision and dedication.
