SON Explains Cause of CNG Vehicle Explosion in Edo, Issues Safety Advisory
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has attributed the recent explosion of a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle in Benin City, Edo State, to the use of substandard equipment. In a statement on Saturday, SON revealed that preliminary investigations showed the cylinder used for the vehicle’s conversion did not meet the required safety standards approved by the organisation.
Substandard Cylinder Identified
SON warned the public about the dangers of using uncertified CNG cylinders, emphasising that such equipment poses significant safety risks. The organisation also extended its sympathies to those injured in the incident.
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“We commiserate with those affected by the incident. It is important to note that the cylinder used does not comply with our approved CNG standards,” the statement read.
Regulatory Measures and Monitoring Plans
SON reassured the public that it has robust regulatory frameworks in place to ensure CNG systems conform to safety standards. Additionally, the agency announced plans to collaborate with the Presidential Initiatives on CNG and other government bodies to finalise the Nigerian Gas Vehicle Monitoring System (NGVMS).
The NGVMS platform will centralise the monitoring and certification of CNG equipment to ensure that only vehicles fitted with approved kits are allowed to refuel at gas stations. This initiative will also maintain a database of certified suppliers and equipment, reducing the risk of substandard installations.
Differentiating LPG and CNG Cylinders
The organisation highlighted the differences between Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and CNG cylinders, stressing the importance of using the correct type for different applications. LPG cylinders are built for a working pressure of 7 bar, whereas CNG cylinders can handle much higher pressures—up to 200 bar working pressure and 300 bar during testing. Unlike LPG cylinders, which may contain welded seams, CNG cylinders are seamless, making them suitable for high-pressure environments.
The Benin Explosion and Public Reactions
The explosion, which occurred on Wednesday at a NIPCO filling station in Aduwawa, Benin, left three people critically injured. Victims included a motorist with eye injuries and others undergoing treatment at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). Witnesses at the scene reported that the cylinder was fabricated by a local welder without proper certification, further raising concerns about the safety of makeshift conversions.
This incident has sparked anxiety among Nigerians, many of whom are considering switching to CNG as a fuel alternative following the recent spike in petrol prices.
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