The medical staff of the Technical Department at the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) on Monday, 5 May 2026, marked International Hygiene Day at the Freetown Port, with a strong focus on promoting handwashing and sanitation practices among workers and visitors.
The exercise involved the systematic washing and sanitising of hands for staff and visitors entering the port facility, as part of efforts to reduce the risk of infections and promote a safe and healthy working environment. Medical personnel stationed at the port demonstrated proper hand hygiene techniques while engaging individuals on the importance of regular handwashing in preventing communicable diseases.
The initiative also highlighted the critical role of nurses and other health professionals in safeguarding public health within operational environments such as ports, where large numbers of people interact daily.
Officials from the Technical Department reaffirmed their commitment to continuous awareness creation, preventive care, and improved service delivery aimed at maintaining high hygiene standards across all port activities. They emphasised that International Hygiene Day serves as an important reminder for both staff and visitors to observe strict hygiene practices that contribute to a healthier and safer port community.
The SLPHA noted that the exercise forms part of its broader commitment to staff welfare, occupational safety, and the maintenance of international public health standards within the maritime environment.
According to the medical team, regular hygiene campaigns are essential in preventing outbreaks of infectious diseases, particularly in busy public service areas such as ports, where constant human movement increases health risks. They further called on all port users to take personal responsibility by practising proper handwashing, using sanitisers where necessary, and supporting ongoing health awareness initiatives.
The event concluded with continued demonstrations and the distribution of hygiene messages aimed at reinforcing safe habits among staff, visitors, and other stakeholders within the Freetown port community. Authorities say the programme will be sustained regularly across all port facilities in Freetown.