The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has issued a stern warning to commercial drivers, urging them to stop refuelling vehicles while passengers are still onboard.

The Authority stressed that this practice endangers the lives of passengers, exposing them to harmful chemicals and increasing the risk of fire incidents.

Speaking at the NPA Central Regional sensitisation durbar in Cape Coast, Michael Opoku-Obiri, Central Regional Manager of the NPA, highlighted the health risks associated with refuelling, particularly the inhalation of toxic fumes.

“Gasoline contains harmful chemicals like benzene, a known carcinogen,” he explained.

“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.”

Despite the open-air nature of most fuel stations, Mr Opoku-Obiri noted that drivers often underestimate the dangers of trapped fumes inside vehicles.

Many commercial drivers refuel without asking passengers to exit, whether in a rush to drop off children, head to work, or run errands.

However, this seemingly harmless habit poses serious safety concerns, with the most significant being the risk of fire.

From January to July 2023, Ghana recorded 3,819 fire incidents across various sectors, with commercial and fuel-related fires being a major cause.

In response to these frequent fire outbreaks, particularly at gas and filling stations, Nana Adwoa Nkansah Aduam III, Paramount Queen Mother of Agona Nsaba and President of the Central Regional Queen Mothers Association, emphasised the need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations.

“The NPA must enforce its public safety mandate more strictly,” Nana Adwoa Nkansah Aduam III said.

She praised the Authority’s efforts to educate the public on petroleum industry safety protocols but urged further action, especially as the country approaches the dry season when fire risks increase.

Mr. Opoku-Obiri reiterated that the NPA has implemented several safety regulations at fuel stations to safeguard the public.

While refuelling may seem like a routine task, he explained, it carries significant risks that are often overlooked.

“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 refuelling,” he said.

He acknowledged that specific rules governing the refueling of commercial vehicles are not widely available in one comprehensive document, but noted that general safety guidelines are emphasized at fuel stations.

The NPA, Mr Opoku-Obiri assured, will continue its public education efforts, targeting petroleum dealers, consumers, and passengers to raise awareness about the dangers of neglecting safety protocols when using gas and fuel.