GNBS to initiate testing for LPG tank regulators in 2025

…as body moves to train individuals on how to test gas tank regulators

Following several situations involving the explosion of gas tanks, swift efforts are being made to train individuals on how to test regulators for gas tanks in Guyana to ensure they meet adequate standards, in collaboration with the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS).
This information was relayed during a recent interview with Lloyd David, Head of Corporate Communications at the GNBS, and this publication, when asked about what measures are being taken by the GNBS to ensure that LPG gas tanks are being properly tested upon Entering Guyana.
According to David, these efforts will be proceeding approximately midyear.
Recently, several gas tanks in Guyana have been reported to have exploded, leading to houses being burned and injuries to individuals.
However, in a recent interview with this publication and Massy Gas CEO Augustus Harris, it was understood that their gas tanks have never exploded. Instead, they pointed out that the real issue lies with incorrect regulators.
According to Lloyd David, there are several reasons why the GNBS has moved to address this issue, given the recent cases that have come to light.
“In fact, it is a reaction towards it because there have been too many complaints regarding it, so it’s an initiative that we see necessary to act on. And we have a standard for it, so we’re going to monitor based on the standard.”
This training, which will be undertaken by the GNBS, will focus on the qualities of the regulators.
“The training is about how to determine the quality of a regulator, which is based on the requirements of the standard. And we need to have the equipment as well.”
According to David, there is already a specific standard that needs to be upheld with these regulators; however, training is required to ensure individuals can detect irregularities.
“We have the standard. We just need the training and the equipment, and we want to commence that sometime this year. But aside from that, LPG meters—we are training in that as well, which is a metrology function in terms of the LPG going into the tank. We did the meters part but in terms of the regulators that are used in households, we’re looking to monitor those It’s still part of our work programme.”
Basmattie Ganpat, 55, who suffered severe burns in a gas explosion at her Foulis, East Coast Demerara (ECD) home on January 4, passed away Sunday morning at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).
Ganpat, who sustained burns to 80 per cent of her body, had been fighting for her life for two weeks.
In light of the recent gas cylinder explosion which has left 55-year-old Basmattie Ganpat and her husband, 58-year-old Manu “Paul” Sukhu hospitalised, the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC) has launched an investigation into that incident and others which took place in the past.
In an issued release to the media, the CCAC noted that it has taken note of the recent incidents involving critical injuries to consumers and severe damage to property during the use of a particular brand of cooking gas product. (G2)