PREVENTION OF ACCIDENTS THROUGH EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR WORK IN VARIOUS GARAGES IN ACCRA

ABSTRACT The National Road Safety Commission (NRSC) announced that there were 2,330 road accidents bringing it to an average of accident per day across the country in2011. In 2012, by November ending 13,535 vehicles crashes have been recorded resulting over 2, 069 deaths in Ghana. In December 2012 alone 246 people died and 1, 260 were injured in road accidents. Road accidents being multidisciplinary in nature involve attention of multidepartment such as Ghana Highway Authority for roads and its furniture. Motor traffic transport unit (MTTU), National Road Safety Commission (NRSC). Motor vehicles including drivers, and garages for repair and maintenance.This study investigated the extent of prevention of accident through effective and efficient maintenance and repair work of vehicles in Accra garages. The vehicle maintenance procedures were examined and the vehicle maintenance and repairs procedures were analysed for effective and efficient maintenance and repairs.It was found out that, with the exception of new vehicle dealership that has modern equipment; independent garages have inferior and obsolete equipment to test for engine pressures, check for correct torque of engine, gauges, alignment and engine tune up.The dissertation further showed that mechanics in independent garages do not have the matching skill competencies needed to cope up with the accelerated technology, in the automotive industry drivers lacked maintenance culture which is militating against smooth operations of vehicles.The study also showed that most mechanics and vehicle users are ignorant about the technical details of maintenance, that vehicle first and foremost operates in line with scientific principles. The study recommended that mechanism be put in place to organize a technical training programme for mechanics. Garage owners should procure the diagnostic tools and equipment, and be trained on how to use them to diagnose vehicle. Drivers and vehicle licensing Authority are to ensure that vehicles used on our roads are roadworthy.