The Lagos state government through the State’s Safety Commission has alerted the general public of the safety hazards and risks inherent in the use of Liquiedfied Petroleum Gas(LPG)-powered generators at home and offices.
Director General, Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, gave the warning on Monday in a statement, while stating that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was committed to ensure safety of lives and properties of the citizens.
Itemising the risks, Mojola said that the risks in the conversion process in the use of the LPG powered generators at home and offices includes; “Spark or heat from the generator can cause fire outbreak if gas leakage occurs from the hose or cylinder valve.
” Explosion could occur if the generator house is not properly ventilated thereby allowing gas leak build up in enclosed space. LPG is bottled under high pressure with potential for explosions if not properly handled.
” Gas cylinders can fall and roll off if not placed on even flooring. When this happens, the gas hose can pull out leading to uncontrolled leakages.Corrosion of gas cylinders can occur when left in the rain or in humid environment. Exposure to direct sunlight can expose cylinders to excessive temperature with attendant risk of explosion.
” Poor installation of the hybrid carburettors on generators can increase the risks of accident. CNG should be discouraged for household generating sets except for special cases like large estates with plants for power generation. Use of sub-standard, dilapidated or expired cylinders substantially increases risks of gas explosion”.
Speaking also, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Ms Shola Shasore, said that converting a petrol generator to use as alternative and less expensive fuel may require modifications and the installation of appropriate conversion kits by qualified professionals.
Shasore advised the citizens to engage only qualified technicians, adding ” When in doubt, please contact the Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources or Lagos State Safety Commission for guidance on professional vendors and installation as well as appropriate safety guidelines”.
