The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has given a stern warning to all Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) traders in Kenya. According to the authority, any trader found selling and distributing LPG gas cylinders without adhering to safety rules will lose their license.
In a statement released on Monday, February 23, EPRA warned all LPG traders in Kenya of the consequences of ignoring licensing requirements, safe storage, and transportation of LPG cylinders. This comes after the authority released guidelines for all LPG retailers and wholesalers in the country.
For any trader to be considered legitimate in the business, they must be licensed and also have a fire safety certificate and a calibrated weighing scale. Also, any LPG cylinder sold must be accompanied by a receipt showing evidence of the sale.
The cylinders must be stored in well-ventilated areas and must be away from any source of fire or sparks. During transportation, the cylinders must be kept upright. However, two-wheelers can carry up to six 60kg cylinders or four 13kg cylinders safely.
Additionally, EPRA requires all LPG retailers and wholesalers in Kenya to ensure they have clear signs showing the public the risks involved in smoking or using any fire near the cylinders.
“EPRA directs all LPG traders to comply with the regulations immediately. Failure to do so will lead to enforcement action including prosecution, fines, suspension, or revocation of licenses,” EPRA stated.
The public has also been advised to report any retailer found violating the rules and regulations regarding LPG trading in Kenya. This can be done by sending an email or calling +254709336000.
The guidelines were released following the recent fire incident in which a gas depot in Dolholm Estate in Nairobi exploded on February 6, resulting in the explosion of some of the cylinders in the depot. Fortunately, nobody was hurt in the explosion.
EPRA stated that the guidelines are meant to ensure the safety of the people of Kenya and prevent any accident in residential areas where the use of LPG is high
