Assessing the Socio-Environmental Impacts of Petroleum and Lubricant Spillage: A Case Study of the University of Cape Coast Transport Section, Cape Coast, Ghana

Abstract

Higher education institutions (HEIs) operate transport systems that support academic, administrative, clinical, and logistical activities, but these operations generate petroleum and lubricant wastes that may pose environmental, occupational, and institutional risks when inadequately managed. This study assessed the socio-environmental impacts of petroleum and lubricant spillages at the Transport Section of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Cape Coast, Ghana. A mixed-methods case study design was adopted. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 100 staff and semi-structured interviews conducted with 22 additional staff, supplemented by field observations and review of relevant institutional documents. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings indicated that petroleum and lubricant spillages occurred mainly during vehicle servicing, fueling, lubricant handling, and waste disposal activities. Field observations and participant reports indicated soil contamination, vegetation degradation, potential risks to surface and groundwater resources, and occupational health and safety concerns. Participants also identified fire hazards, reduced workplace safety, and potential reputational implications for the institution. The findings suggest that inadequate containment infrastructure, limited awareness of spill-prevention practices, and weaknesses in waste-management procedures contribute to the persistence of spill-related risks. The study concludes that petroleum and lubricant spillages constitute an important socio-environmental management challenge within university transport operations. Strengthening spill-prevention measures, staff training, environmental auditing, containment infrastructure, and institutional environmental management policies could reduce associated risks and promote sustainable transport operations. Because no soil or water samples were chemically analysed, environmental impacts were assessed through field observations and stakeholder reports rather than laboratory-confirmed contamination.