Abstract
BACKGROUND: Fisherfolk working in coastal communities face several occupational hazards, such as poor safety infrastructure and exposure to environmental pollutants. These conditions are often worsened in regions near oil and gas operations. Despite the high-risk nature of their work, there is limited research, particularly in Ghana, on the specific health and safety challenges these fishermen encounter. This study assessed occupational accidents among fisherfolks in some selected communities around the oil and gas production areas in the Ahanta West District of Ghana. METHODS: We adopted a cross-sectional study design, and a structured questionnaire was administered to 220 fishermen who were selected using a simple random sampling method. Descriptive statistics were used to report the frequency of fishing activity, safety practices, natural hazards, the prevalence of occupational accidents, as well as the perceived health threats associated with nearby oil and gas operations. Binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess associations between sociodemographic factors and the prevalence of occupational accidents. RESULTS: Most respondents fished more than ten times monthly and typically spent a day at sea per trip. Many respondents perceived seaweed blooms as a major threat to both their canoes and personal health. The prevalence of occupational accidents was high, with falls, cuts, and fish spine piercings commonly reported. A one-year increase in age was associated with 7% greater odds of having an occupational accident (AOR = 1.07; 95% CI: 1.01–1.14). CONCLUSION: The study highlights a high prevalence of occupational accidents among fishermen in the Ahanta West District, driven by inadequate safety practices and environmental challenges. Targeted interventions, including safety training, provision of protective gear, and policy support, are essential to improving occupational health and safety in these coastal communities. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-025-24168-z.