The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has strongly warned commercial drivers’ to cease refilling their tank when passengers are onboard.

According to NPA, the practice poses serious dangers to passengers as it exposes them to harmful chemicals and intensifies the risk of fire.

The Central Regional Manager of the NPA, Michael Opoku-Obiri, in his address during a sensitisation durbar in Cape Coast, pointed out the health risks related with refueling, especially the inhalation of toxic fumes.

He said, “Gasoline contains harmful chemicals like benzene, a known carcinogen.

“These fumes can easily enter vehicles through open windows or doors, putting passengers, especially children and the elderly, at risk of nausea, dizziness, and respiratory issues.”

He added that Ghana recorded 3,819 fire outbreaks between January and July 2023 with majority of the incidents linked with commercial and fuel-related fires .

Opoku-Obiri explained that drivers underrate the dangers of fumes trapped in vehicles regardless of the open-air nature of fuel station.

A lot of commercial vehicle drivers refill their tanks without asking passengers to get down.

According to him this seemly harmless practice poses serious safety risk, with fire outbreak being the great concern.

“By taking simple precautions, such as ensuring passengers exit the vehicle and being vigilant about potential hazards, drivers can significantly reduce the dangers associated with refueling,” he said.

Opoku-Obiri emphasised that the NPA has already enforced numerous safety regulations at fuel stations to protect the public.

He further said that comprehensive rules regarding commercial vehicles are not accessible in a single document, but safety guidelines are highlighted at fuel stations.

Opoku-Obiri gave the assurance that the NPA will continuously educate the public focusing on petroleum dealers, consumers , and passengers to enhance awareness of the risks associated with ignoring safety protocols when using gas and fuel.

Nana Adwoa Nkansah Aduam III, Paramount Queen Mother of Agona Nsaba and President of the Central Regional Queen Mothers Association reacting to the continuous fire outbreaks especially at gas stations, advocated for a stern enforcement on safety regulations

She said, “The NPA must enforce its public safety mandate more strictly.”

The queen mother commended the NPA for its efforts in raising public awareness about the petroleum industry safety protocols, however she called for additional measures, particularly with increased fire risk during dry seasons.

RAD/ ADG