Incessant explosions: Lagos sets safety standards for retail gas operators

The Lagos State government has introduced safety standards for retail gas operators within the state to mitigate the recurring incidents of gas explosions and fires that frequently result in the loss of lives and properties.

Mr Lanre Mojola, the Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission (LSSCOM), emphasised this during his keynote address at a one-day training program for gas retailers conducted in collaboration with the State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.

Mojola pointed out several factors contributing to explosions, including the adulteration of gases, mishandling of cylinders, and the use of industrial and cooking gases near potential sources of ignition. He also cited the proliferation of gas retail outlets and the inadequate training of operators and users in safely handling gas as additional causes.

The primary objective of this training was to offer solutions to the ongoing problem of gas explosions and fire incidents that have resulted in the loss of lives. Mojola stressed the irreplaceable nature of human life, stating, “Cars, appliances, and utilities can be replaced, but our lives cannot.”

He also highlighted the severe consequences of explosions, which affect not only individuals but also the moral, financial, and reputational standing of the organisations involved.

Mojola emphasised that learning is an ongoing process and encouraged participants to acquire and share knowledge within their organizations continually. He also called upon operators in the gas sector to cooperate fully with government officials during on-site assessments to ensure safety.

In conclusion, Mojola expressed confidence that through these annual exercises, Lagos will become a safer place for all.

The training program featured various safety experts presenting papers, including Engr Sesan Odukoya, the Director of Oil and Gas at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, who discussed the “Cooking Gas Penetration Policy and Regulation of Retail Business,” and Mr Adeyinka Adebiyi, who covered topics like “Gas Cylinder and Emergency Management,” “Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation,” and “Fire Prevention and Evaluation Procedures.”

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