GSA cracks down on dangerous paint products following JoyNews exposé

The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) has issued a strong warning to vendors. They plan to take action against the sale of unapproved paint products. This includes paints with harmful levels of lead.

This warning follows a documentary by JoyNews. The documentary revealed high-lead paints being sold in Ghana.

An undercover investigation aired on JoyNews’ Hotline. It showed disturbing practices in local paint shops. Some shops sold paints with dangerously high lead levels. Others mixed expired paints with locally produced ones, risking public health.

GSA Raids Paint Shops in Accra

In response, the GSA conducted surprise operations in Accra. With JoyNews’ Maxwell Aklorbortu present, officers collected paint samples for testing. They raided 15 shops and found shocking violations.

At some locations, vendors mixed different types of paints. In other cases, unbranded products were sold, violating consumer standards. Some shop owners resisted inspections, but the GSA team continued their work with law enforcement support.

Over 20 paint samples were seized during the raids. These will be tested for hazardous chemicals to ensure safety standards are met.

George Kojo Anti leads Special Projects at the GSA. He expressed shock at the findings and called the situation “alarming.” The results raised concerns about public safety, especially for children exposed to high lead levels.

Kojo Anti warned shop owners that they will face severe penalties if they break regulations. “We are not just issuing a warning; we are taking action,” he stated. He also mentioned more surprise inspections are planned and urged compliance with safety standards.

The GSA aims to eliminate illegal and unapproved paint products from the market. They remain committed to protecting consumers and ensuring safe products in Ghana’s marketplace.