The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has issued a warning to commercial drivers against refuelling their vehicles while passengers are still onboard, citing significant safety hazards.

According to the NPA, keeping passengers in vehicles during refuelling exposes them to harmful chemicals, which can pose serious health risks.

At a sensitization durbar in Cape Coast, the NPA's Central Regional Manager, Mr. Michael Opoku-Obiri, highlighted the primary danger of inhaling toxic fumes during refuelling. He noted that gasoline contains harmful chemicals such as benzene, a carcinogen, which can enter vehicles through open windows or doors, especially affecting vulnerable individuals like children and the elderly. Exposure to these fumes can lead to respiratory issues, dizziness, and nausea.

Despite fuel stations being open and well-ventilated, Mr. Opoku-Obiri stressed that drivers often overlook the potential danger of trapped fumes inside the car. He pointed out that many drivers refuel without asking passengers to exit, a practice commonly observed when drivers are in a hurry.

In addition to health concerns, Mr. Opoku-Obiri emphasized that refuelling with passengers onboard significantly increases the risk of fire.

He referenced statistics showing that from January to July 2023, there were 3,819 fire incidents in Ghana, with many related to commercial and fuel operations.

To address these risks, the NPA has implemented various safety regulations aimed at protecting the public at fuel stations.

Mr. Opoku-Obiri reminded drivers that while refuelling is routine, it carries dangers that should not be ignored.

“By taking simple precautions, such as ensuring passengers exit the vehicle and remaining vigilant about potential hazards, drivers can significantly reduce the dangers associated with refuelling,” he said.

The NPA's Central Regional Manager, Mr. Michael Opoku-Obiri, acknowledged that while there isn’t a single comprehensive document detailing rules on refuelling commercial vehicles, safety guidelines and warnings are consistently emphasized.

He reassured that the NPA remains committed to raising awareness among petroleum dealers, consumers, and passengers about the hazards associated with improper fuel handling.

During the event, Nana Adwoa Nkansah Aduam III, Paramount Queen Mother of Agona Nsaba and President of the Central Regional Queen Mothers Association, called for stricter enforcement of NPA regulations concerning refuelling vehicles with passengers onboard.

She highlighted the significant health and safety risks posed by this practice and urged the NPA to intensify its public safety initiatives.

Nana Aduam praised the NPA for its efforts to educate the public but also stressed the need for further action, particularly as the country approaches the dry season, which brings an increased risk of fire incidents.

Given the recurring fire outbreaks at gas and filling stations in recent years, she underscored the importance of enhanced public education on fuel and gas safety protocols.