Limbe, February 1st, 2024:*Students from the School of Health at Horizon University Institute of Buea (HUIB) embarked on a valuable study visit to two prominent establishments, the Hysacam regional headquarters in Limbe and the esteemed oil refining company SONARA. The visit, conducted recently, served as a comprehensive exploration of health and safety measures in industrial and waste management settings.
The outlined objectives of the visit were as follows:
1. **Understanding Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene Principles:** To grasp the fundamental principles governing occupational health and industrial hygiene in diverse workplace environments.
2. **Identifying Hazards and Risks at SONARA:** A specific focus on recognizing potential hazards to which workers are exposed at SONARA, including both chemical and physical risks.
3. **Knowledge of Risk Assessment and Control Strategies:** To comprehend the strategies employed in assessing and controlling risks, encompassing engineering, substitution, administrative, and personal protective equipment measures.
4. **Observing Waste Management Methods:** To witness firsthand the waste management practices implemented at Hysacam and SONARA, including physical handling of municipal wastes at dumping sites.
At Hysacam, the students were warmly received by the Health and Safety Officer, who guided them through the headquarters and the dumping ground in Limbe. The immersive experience allowed the students to gain insights into the intricacies of waste management and understand the critical role of health and safety protocols in such operations.
The visit to SONARA provided an opportunity for the students to engage with experts in the field. Talks from the Occupational Health and Safety/Industrial Hygiene Officer and the Director of the Sociomedical Center centered around the implementation of robust safety and health measures in a complex industrial setting. The students actively participated by posing insightful questions, showcasing their eagerness to comprehend real-world applications of their academic knowledge.
Throughout the visits, the officials from Hysacam and SONARA were impressed by the students’ enthusiasm, engagement, and thirst for knowledge. The exchange of ideas and information was mutually beneficial, fostering a positive connection between academia and industry. The officials expressed their hope for continued collaboration and welcomed the students for future visits, recognizing the value of such interactions in shaping the future health professionals in the field.