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Members of the public have been warned against using faulty and sub-standard gas accessories to avert accidents that occur as a result of using defective equipment.

Experts in the gas industry decried that continuous use of malfunctioning accessories such as burners, grills, hose pipes and regulators often pose danger to users.

According to them, while gas is very effective and useful in heating, cooking and generating electricity, use of adulterated gas and faulty accessories can be hazardous to users especially during leakages.

Led by Joseph Kamau Ndung’u, the chairman in charge of Mt Kenya gas dealers, the experts called for correct storage and use of standardised accessories to avoid injuries and accidents.

Speaking during a sensitisation forum organised by the dealers and which brought together retailers, consumers and regulators, the experts insisted that those who refurbish, fill, transport and use gas must be suitably trained to have the necessary skills to carry out their job safely.

“We have fake accessories in the market which should be blamed for accidents that occur frequently. Our appeal to people is to adopt usage of standardised accessories for durability, safety and effectiveness in cost. The government should also help us enforce this,” said Kamau.

During the event, fire fighters led by Kiambu fire officer Samuel Kahura trained gas users on ways of identifying the conditions capable of causing fire, use of fire extinguishers, responding appropriately to fire emergencies at workplaces and at home, fire evacuation plans among other tips.

He urged the government to rein in individuals duping unsuspecting Kenyans by selling them fake gas cylinders and accessories saying that safety of items sold to Kenyans must be of high quality to avert accidents.

While vowing to crisscross various parts of the region sensitising the public on proper ways of using gas, the businesspersons further called on the government to continue bettering their working environment to facilitate expansion of their businesses.

Thika Town MP Alice Ng’ang’a vowed to continue protecting the investors whom she said have employed thousands of Kenyans.

She called on the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) to protect the entrepreneurs from harassment by individuals seeking to interfere with their operations insisting that so long as one has the requisite licensing, they should be allowed to operate uninterrupted.

“We shall protect legitimate businesspersons including gas dealers with the requisite licensing. We shall not allow goons to harass and or interfere with their operations,” said the MP.

The MP at the same time revealed that Kenyans will enjoy reduced gas prices before the end of the year as the government continues to revive the economy that has been on its knees for a long period.
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