By Dominic Hlordzi
The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has advised the public to ensure that filled LPG cylinders are transported in a safe and secure position.
This precaution, according to the NPA, is to prevent over-pressurisation, which could damage the pressure relief valve, leading to gas leaks or even explosions.
Head of Consumer Services at the National Petroleum Authority, Eunice Budu-Nyarko, emphasised this during an LPG safety campaign in some tertiary institutions in the Upper West Region.
She stressed that cylinders should ideally be transported in an upright position to minimise risks.
“Consumers of petroleum products, especially LPG, must prioritise safety,” she stated.
“Ignoring safety measures could result in fire outbreaks at homes and workplaces, leading to loss of lives, injuries, and damage to property.”
Answering a question about the risk of wrong fuel dispensing at filling stations, Mrs. Budu-Nyarko urged motorists to always confirm the type of fuel they are purchasing with attendants. She also advised paying attention to color-coded fuel nozzles: Red for petrol (Super), Black for diesel, and green for high-octane (RON 95) products.
The NPA’s Upper West Regional Supervisor for Inspections and Monitoring, Abraham Dauda warned students against using mobile phones while cooking and stressed the need to always adhere to safety protocols.
Meanwhile, Vice Chancellor of Dr. Hilla Liman Technical University, Prof. Hamidatu Saaka Darimani suggested that Ghana should adopt what he termed Burkina Faso’s system of purchasing cylinders from licensed outlets only. This, she believes, would protect consumers from unknowingly buying repainted or substandard cylinders from uncertified traders.
While commending the NPA for its ongoing public sensitisation efforts, Prof. Darimani explained that safety goes beyond fire prevention, it requires a deeper understanding of the risks posed by negligence.
Dr. Hilla Liman Technical University and Nusrat Jahan Ahmadiyya College of Education were among the first institutions to benefit from the sensitisation campaign in the region.
