Lagos Govt Warns Against Unsafe Conversion Of Petrol-Powered Generators To Gas
The Lagos State Government has advocated the safe conversion of petrol-powered generators to Liquified Petroleum Gas, LPG, in homes and offices.
The Director General of the State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, made the suggestion in a statement against the recent removal of petrol subsidy which has led to the hike in the pump price of PMS and the resulting discomfort to citizens.
Mr Mojola who said some Nigerians were already embracing the option, pointed out that powering generators and plants with alternative fuels like LPG or Compressed Natural Gas, CNG, offers several benefits including: saving of costs over a long period, cleaner energy; minimising noise, air and environmental pollution.
He however warned Lagosians against unsafe conversion of their power generating sets because of the hazards and risks inherent in the conversion process.
He listed the associated risks and hazards to include; spark or heat from the generator which could lead to fire outbreaks if gas leakage occurs from the hose or cylinder valve, explosion due to gas build up and improper ventilation of generator house, exposure to direct sunlight which may cause explosion, high pressure bottling of LPG and uneven flooring, which could cause gas cylinders to roll off, as well as corrosion of gas cylinders when left in the rain or in humid environment and poor installation of the hybrid carburettors on generators which could also increase the risks of accident.
The Safety Commission Director General, also cautioned against the use of CNG for household generating sets except for special cases like large estates with plants for power generation as well as the use of sub-standard, dilapidated or expired cylinders which he said would substantially increase risks of gas explosion.
Also, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Ms Shola Shasore urged residents to always employ the services of professionals and the use of appropriate conversion kits.
