FACULTY OF ENGINEERING
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
ATTACHMENT REPORT
AT
WESTERN TRANSPORT SERVICES
BY
AIDOO ANSAH RICHARD
HND IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING (AUTOMOBILE)
0721361100
YEAR 2 (2) REGULAR
DATE: FROM 11TH SEPTEMBER TO 24TH NOVEMBER, 2023.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The ultimate thanks be to the Almighty God for His Grace during my period of industrial
attachment.
Secondly, to the entire management and staff of WESTERN TRANSPORT SERVICE most
especially The Engineer for works and my supervisor I say God Bless you all.
Finally, my sincere gratitude goes to the management and all lecturers of TAKORADI
TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY.
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ABSTRACT
Industrial attachment is a requirement in partial fulfilment of the HND course in MECHANICAL
ENGINEERING. The main purpose of industrial attachment is meant to bridge the gap between
what one learnt in class and what happens out on the field of work. As part of the goals and
objectives of the TAKORADI TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY in HND, every student is expected
to achieve excellence in the nation’s industrialization work through relevant research, consultancy
and economic development in the region and the nation as a whole. In other to achieve this vision
of competency, students are allowed to undergo two months intensive industrial training, which
would help them to gain the requisite experience and technical knowledge in addition to the
theoretical knowledge acquired. The attachment was done at
WESTERN TRANSPORT SERVICES, from 11TH SEPTEMVER TO 24TH NOVEMBER,
2023. This industrial attachment report contains information about the firm, its mission, vision, the
brief history of the department, its products and services, rules and regulations, challenges facing
the students on industrial attachment and what was done during the attachment period. Finally, the
report gives conclusion and recommendation to be undertaken by the TAKORADI TECHNICAL
UNIVERSITY.
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DEDICATION
I would like to dedicate this piece of work to God Almighty who made this attachment program a
possibility and for seeing me through the whole period. I also dedicate this to my parents,
siblings and the rest of my family members for supporting me with their prayers and kind
throughout this attachment period.
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TABLE CONTENT
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ............................................................................................................... i
ABSTRACT .................................................................................................................................... ii
DEDICATION ............................................................................................................................... iii
CHARPTER ONE .......................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 OBJECTIVE OF INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT .............................................................. 2
1.3 BACKGROUND OF THE ORGANISATION .................................................................... 3
1.3.1 BRIEF HISTORY OF K.A KWANSA COMPANY LTD ................................................ 3
1.3.2 VISION .............................................................................................................................. 3
1.3.3 MISSION ........................................................................................................................... 3
1.3.4 CORE VALUES ................................................................................................................ 3
1.4 DEPARTMENT .................................................................................................................... 4
CHAPTER TWO ............................................................................................................................ 5
2.1 DESCRIPTION OF THE NATURE OF WORKDONE AT THE SECTION I WAS
ASSIGNED ................................................................................................................................. 5
2.2 SERVICING AND REPAIRS .............................................................................................. 5
2.3 TYRES AND VULCANIZING ............................................................................................ 7
2.4 SPARE PARTS AND ACCESSORIES SALES .................................................................. 9
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....................................................................................................................................................... 10
CHAPTER THREE ...................................................................................................................... 11
3.1 NEW KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS ACQUIRED AND CHALLENGES
ENCOUNTRERED ................................................................................................................... 11
3.2 CONTRIBUTION OF STUDENTS TO THE ORGANIZATION ..................................... 11
3.3 GENERAL COMMENT, OBSERVATION AND IMPRESSIONS ............................. 12
3.3.1 GENERAL COMMENT .................................................................................................. 12
3.3.2 OBSERVATION .............................................................................................................. 12
3.3.3 IMPRESSIONS ................................................................................................................ 13
CHAPTER FOUR ......................................................................................................................... 14
RECOMMENDATION AND CONCLUSION ............................................................................ 14
4.1 RECOMMENDATION ...................................................................................................... 14
4.2 CONCLUSION ................................................................................................................... 14
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CHARPTER ONE
1.1 INTRODUCTION
In partial fulfillment of the award of the HND certificate, the national accreditation board for
tertiary education experts every HND students in the university to undergo at least two months
industrial attachment in the completion of his/her course, and this helps the student to attain the
right caliber of people with requisite skills and technical know-how to manage and execute task
effectively and efficiently in order to achieve targets.
Alternatively, if students are expose to this practical industrial attachment, it helps them to
familiarize themselves with the working environment, including modern technologies and with
the deep understanding of industrial operation as well as helping the student to acquire the
needed skill and technical knowledge in realization of a vision of the economy.
This report is written carefully and treated with down to earth English, using chapters, examples,
sketches and pictures to make presentation clear and understanding. This attachment report is an
eye-opening, life changing experience. It is so amazingly simple, yet so profound. This report
therefore is an account of my Eight-week stay at WESTERN TRANSPORT SERVICES.
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1.2 OBJECTIVE OF INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT
The main objective of industrial attachment is to help Takoradi Technical University student
offering Higher National Diploma courses to achieve excellence in manpower training and action
research in order to provide support to industry and commence in the areas of human resource
development.
First-hand experience, skills and practical aspect of the training is acquired through laid down
Systematic instructions to help the student develop positive attitudes for living self-confidence
and to develop entrepreneurial skills so that the student can take the initiative in job creation in
order to promote expansion of the private sector. In school only the theory aspect is taught so the
best way is to engage the student in industrial training soon after the semester. The attachment
training is based on the study course or program learnt in school. On the whole, industrial
attachment exposed student to the demands and nature of the profession or job career as well as
to provide a situation for the student to learn on the job.
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1.3 BACKGROUND OF THE ORGANISATION
1.3.1 BRIEF HISTORY OF WESTERN TRANSPORT SERVICES
The roots and origin of Western Transport Services began in 1909 as a Government Transport
Department to cater for the needs of the central Government. In 1965, it was made a body
corporate by Legislative Instrument (L.I) number 414 of 9th March 1965 to run commercial
passenger services and was then called the Western Transport Services (WTS). In January 1968,
the Government also created a haulage division to cater for the haulage of both dry and wet
cargo. This was also handed over to WTS to manage as a bulk haulage division, to function
alongside the passenger division. WTS was later incorporated in June 1995 as a Limited Liability
Company under Ghana’s Companies Act, 1962, (Act 179) in the name, WTS. Over the years, the
company has gone through changes and is now known as the WTS since 2003 October.
1.3.2 VISION
To be the leader in the road passenger transport industry in Ghana and the ECOWAS subregion
1.3.3 VISION
To consistently and profitably deliver the safest, most comfortable and reliable road transport and
allied services using highly motivated and competent workforce and state of the art facilities to
meet the aspirations of all stakeholders.
1.3.4 CORE VALUES
• Superior Customer Service
• Good business practice
• Competency
• Innovation
• Safety
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1.4 DEPARTMENT
• Welding and Fabrication Technology
• Electrical Engineering Technology
• Automotive Engineering Technology
• Mechanical engineering
• Administration
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CHAPTER TWO
2.1 DESCRIPTION OF THE NATURE OF WORKDONE AT THE SECTION I WAS
ASSIGNED
The department of works which has the Automobile Services section under it in mainly
responsible for:
Servicing and repairs
Tyres and vulcanizing
Spare parts and accessories sales
2.2 SERVICING AND REPAIRS
Within our mechanical department, the Servicing and Repairs division stands as a cornerstone,
providing essential support for our clientele. Committed to ensuring the longevity and optimal
performance of our products, this specialized unit offers comprehensive maintenance and repair
services.
Our team of skilled technicians and engineers excel in diagnosing and rectifying issues promptly,
minimizing downtime for our clients. Whether it's routine maintenance, troubleshooting, or
urgent repairs, we prioritize efficiency without compromising on the quality of service. Utilizing
advanced diagnostics and leveraging our in-depth knowledge of our machinery, we aim to
exceed expectations in restoring equipment functionality.
Emphasizing a proactive approach, our Servicing and Repairs department also offers preventive
maintenance programs, reducing the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns and extending the
lifespan of our mechanical systems. This commitment to service excellence ensures that our
clients can rely on the durability and reliability of our products throughout their operational life.
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Fig 2.2: Shaft servicing
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2.3 TYRES AND VULCANIZING
Our specialized Automobile Tyre Repairs and Vulcanizing division is dedicated to ensuring the
safety and longevity of your vehicle's tires. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a team
of skilled technicians, we offer comprehensive services tailored to address a range of tire-related
issues. From repairing punctures to intricate vulcanizing processes, we prioritize swift and
effective solutions. Our technicians undergo rigorous training to handle various tire types and
sizes, employing industry-leading techniques to guarantee the structural integrity of the repaired
tires.
In addition to on-demand repairs, we provide preventive maintenance services to identify and
address potential issues before they escalate. This proactive approach aims to enhance the overall
performance and lifespan of your tires. Committed to quality and safety, our Automobile Tyre
Repairs and Vulcanizing division strives to keep you on the road with confidence, ensuring that
your tires meet the highest standards of reliability and durability.
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Fig 2.2: Tyre Repair
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2.4 SPARE PARTS AND ACCESSORIES SALES
Our Spare Parts and Accessories Sales department is your go-to destination for genuine and high-
quality components, ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of your machinery or
vehicles. We stock a comprehensive range of spare parts and accessories, sourced directly from
reputable manufacturers or authorized suppliers.
Whether you're looking for critical replacement parts or seeking to enhance functionality with
accessories, our dedicated team is committed to providing solutions that meet your specific
requirements. We understand the importance of reliability in every component, and our inventory
reflects this commitment to quality.
Our sales team is knowledgeable and ready to assist you in finding the right parts, offering
technical expertise and guidance throughout the selection process. With a seamless ordering and
delivery system, we aim to minimize downtime and keep your equipment running smoothly.
Trust us to be your reliable partner in sourcing top-notch spare parts and accessories, ensuring
the continued efficiency and performance of your machinery or vehicles.
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Fig 2.3: Car Spare Parts
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CHAPTER THREE
3.1 CONTRIBUTION OF STUDENTS TO THE ORGANIZATION
I contributed immensely to the development of the organization in various ways. During the
internship, I contributed to the promotion and boasting of the productivity of the department. I
shared my little knowledge on team player I learnt from school whenever I was called on. I had
the opportunity to share my classroom knowledge and skills with the staff on Mechanical
Engineering since some of the staff has no Engineering background. Below is my contributions
to company;
Changing of head gasket, front lower arms and shack absorber
Checking electronics fault using diagnosing machine
Adjusting of hand brake
Checking ABS Sensors
Replacing new suspension system
Removal of exhausting pipes.
3.2 NEW KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS ACQUIRED AND CHALLENGES
ENCOUNTRERED
3.2.1 NEW SKILLS ACQUIRED
“During my ten weeks of the attachment program, new skills acquired were;
Changing of Engine sect
Servicing of brake pad.
Replacing of oil filter, air filter, diesel filter tec.
Dismantling of car engine
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3.2.2 CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED
Even though the internship was fulfilling and exciting, I encountered some challenges in relation
to the cost of transportation that I incurred throughout the whole ten weeks of the attachment.
Some challenges encountered during the industrial attachment at organization are as follows:
Work overload
Lack of equipment to work
Not much workers to assist
No break for workers
3.3 GENERAL COMMENT, OBSERVATION AND IMPRESSIONS
3.3.1 GENERAL COMMENT
Mechanical Engineering is a good programme, therefore it should be encouraged more since it
opens the mind of student during industrial attachment and doing so has helped me to gain
experience on how to work as an engineer and Generally, I would like to say the Automobile
Services section at WESTERN TRANSPORT SERVICES is a noble firm for every engineering
student who would like to undergo industrial training in the Mechanical Engineering.
3.3.2 OBSERVATION
During the period of my attachment, I observed that;
• Workers are eager to work.
• Workers were made to work in harry ahead of time.
• There was proper supervision and positive work ethics.
• In order to achieve their target, workers are highly motivated.
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• Workers always abide by the strict safety rules and regulations on site.
• Instructions and orders are taken accordingly as it was been given by any authority.
• The workers really enjoyed the work they do but were very particular about their
monetary issues.
3.3.3 IMPRESSIONS
• I was also impressed on how they accepted me to work with them.
• I was impressed again how supervisors work with their subordinates.
Furthermore, I was very happy to undertake my industrial training at “WESTERN TRANSPORT
SERVICES”, Automobile Service Unit”. They were group of people who were ever ready to
receive and work with students from all over the country. I really appreciated all the assistance I
had been given by Engineers. It was like working with a small family where all members were
ready to assist in all aspect that one does not know.
CHAPTER FOUR
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RECOMMENDATION AND CONCLUSION
4.1 RECOMMENDATION
Below are the recommendations that can help improve this attachment program.
The duration for this attachment program is quite short for one to be able to acquire that much of
knowledge. At least student should receive a little amount of money at the end of the month for
them to know that they also count in the organization, since these student works hard enough to
receive the signature of their various supervisors. This program should be extended through to
the other engineering courses.
4.2 CONCLUSION
Knowledge acquired in the school was put into practice.
Skills needed to become a practiced oriented engineer were achieved.
Work forces were strengthened through an improved understanding.
Interpersonal skills were acquired.
Quality control of work was achieved.
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