Intensify inspections on gas cylinders to ensure safety standards, urges ZACA


By Chinoyi Chipulu 

Zambia Consumer Association (ZACA) has called on the Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS) and the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) to intensify inspections to ensure that all gas cylinders on the market meet safety and quality standards.

ZACA executive director Juba Sakala said there was need to increase penalties for suppliers and manufacturers found distributing substandard or counterfeit cylinders.

Sakala’s call comes after reports of incidents involving gas cylinder explosions on the Copperbelt, which have resulted in injuries to consumers.

In a statement made available to Daily Revelation yesterday, Sakala stated that poor quality gas cylinders posed a significant risk to public safety.

“The presence of substandard or counterfeit gas cylinders on the market may compromise safety. Many consumers are unaware of the correct methods for using and storing gas cylinders,” he stated. “ZACA is deeply concerned about the recent incidents involving gas cylinder explosions on the Copperbelt, which have resulted in injuries to consumers. These unfortunate occurrences highlight critical gaps in the handling, maintenance, and regulation of gas cylinders and related equipment in the country,” 

He stated that ZACA would collaborate with relevant stakeholders to launch nationwide sensitisation campaigns on safe handling, usage, and storage of gas cylinders.

“Clear and visible guidelines must be provided to consumers at points of sale … Introduce mandatory periodic inspections and recertification of gas cylinders to detect and remove defective ones from circulation.”

Sakala said there was need to develop a tracking system to monitor cylinder age and usage.

“All vendors and distributors of gas cylinders must undergo basic safety training and be certified to sell these products. Unauthorised and informal gas cylinder sales must be curbed,” he stated.

He stated that local authorities and first responders should be equipped and trained to handle gas-related emergencies effectively.

“Encourage the establishment of toll-free hotlines for reporting unsafe practices or defective products. ZACA calls upon the Ministry of Energy, ERB, ZABS, local councils, and industry players to work together in creating a robust safety framework for gas cylinders,” stated Sakala. “Public-private partnerships can be explored to provide affordable and safer cylinder options.”

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