NP reviewing standard of LPG tanks

The Trinidad and Tobago National Petroleum Marketing Company Ltd (NP) has announced a comprehensive review of national standards for liquid petroleum gas (LPG) cylinder tanks following a series of tragic explosions that resulted in multiple injuries and at least four fatalities. The incidents have raised significant concerns about the safety and handling of LPG cylinders across the country. Among the victims were Bevaughn Joseph, a 28-year-old laborer from Penal, who died on October 17 after sustaining severe injuries from a home explosion, and Ria George, 45, of Digity Trace, who succumbed to injuries nearly two months after a similar incident. Earlier this year, Raquel Babwah, 44, and Naomi Aliyah Mya De Mille, 19, also lost their lives in related accidents. In response, NP has initiated a collaborative effort with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries (MEEI), the Occupational Health and Safety Agency (OSHA), and the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS), to enhance safety protocols. Measures include rigorous safety checks, hydraulic pressure testing every five years, and the implementation of a barcode system for digital traceability. NP emphasized its commitment to public safety, urging customers to report suspected leaks immediately and store cylinders in secure locations. The MEEI has also pledged to expedite the review and implementation of updated LPG regulations to ensure modern safety standards are met.