The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has held a workshop to sensitise stakeholders on compliance to relevant industrial standards and Codes of Practice in handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and oxygen to avert associated disasters.
Mallam Farouk Salim, SON Director-General/Chief Executive said at the workshop on Thursday in Jos, that the event was imperative because of inherent dangers posed by LPG and oxgyen gas if not handled properly.
Salim, who was represented by the Plateau Coordinator of SON, Mr Gambo Dimka, said that considering the benefits, the importance of LPG and
oxygen gas to human lives could not be overemphasised.
“However, the lack of adequate knowledge on its management, thus production handling, transportation and its usefulness could turn its usefulness to hazard.
“Poor handling of these gases have been a source of sorrows to many, individuals, families, communities and societies through loss of lives and property.
“Saddled with the responsibility of developing standards for products measurement, materials and processes among others, and the promotion of these standards at national, regional and international level, SON organised the workshop.
“SON has come together with sister agencies who have various critical roles in this industry to enlighten the general public, most especially owners of gas plants and stakeholders in the sector.
“Sensitise them on the code of practice for general handling and control of LPG cylinders.
“also educate on Codes of practice on general handling and control of LPG vessels for storage of liquefied petroleum gas.
“Transportable refillable welded steel cylinders for liquefied petroleum gas period-re-qualification,” he explained.
Mr Abe Aku, Plateau Commissioner for Commerce and Industries Plateau Government was a reliable partner of the Federal Government as such, would always support the Federal Government in all her programmes and activities.
Aku, represented by Mrs Nanlop Gupiya, the minisry’s Permanent Secretary, said that the workshop was a call to embracing quality assurance and safe practices in the day to day work and environment.
The commissioner assured that Plateau Government would work with SON as it strived to infuse the practice of applying the minimum requirements found in Nigerian industrial standards as a tool for industrial development.
Mr Jonathan Mutfwang, State Controller, Federal Fire Service, Plateau Command, said the importance of safety in handling flammable substances could never be overemphasized, especially with the proliferation of LPG sellers.
Mutfwang who was represented by Mr Epaphras Anzolo said that Fire Service would continue to synergise stakeholders and come up with a template to address the concern and reduce exposure to risk.
A keynote was presented by Plateau Commissioner for Environment Mr Yakubu Idi with other stakeholders like gas plant owners, dealers in attendance.
