EPA Boss calls for new guidelines…to stop proliferation of LPG filling plants

THE Executive Director of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Mr. J.A Allotey has observed that the consumption of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) had been on the steady rise since its introduction into the country.

The increase in demand, according to him, had attracted investments into the sector, resulting in the proliferation of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Filling plants, particularly in the rural centres.

He added, “this situation poses a serious threat to lives and properties due to the volatile nature of LPG and the potential to cause fire outbreaks. The case of the Kumasi explosion is still fresh in our minds.”

Speaking at a two-day workshop organized jointly by the EPA and the National Petroleum Authority, he advised that the situation called for the introduction of new guidelines and effective collaboration between operators and regulators to ensure safe and sound operations in the sector.

He said that the EPA is mandated under Act 490, 1994 to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Environmental Assessment Regulations, 1999, LI 1652 and laid down EPA procedures.

“Specifically, LI 1652 requires al undertakings such as the establishment of LPG filling plants that could have significant negative effect on the environment to be registered and permit obtained before commencement of the undertaking.” he explained.

Presenting an overview of the workshop session, the Technical Director of the NPA, Mr.Isaac Tagoe, outlined the permit requirements and procedures to enable operators and regulators operate within their sector. He mentioned the zoning/ rezoning approval obtainable from the Town and Country Planning Department (TCPD), the development / building permit from the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) and the Environmental Permit from the EPA.

The rest, he mentioned, were the Fire Permit, which could be obtained from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) and the National Petroleum Authority Construction Permit from the NPA.