The Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) has urged Nigerians to stop using substandard and uncertified CNG gas cylinders.

The warning comes in light of the recent explosion involving a CNG cylinder at the NIPCO CNG Refueling Station in Benin City, Edo State.

In a statement issued by SON’s management, it was noted that “preliminary investigations have revealed that the cylinder used to convert the vehicle is different from those that comply with the CNG standards approved by the Organization.”

“Even though the Organization commiserates with those affected by the incident, SON has robust and effective regulatory measures in place to ensure all CNG equipment and conversion kits conform to approved standards before being certified for public use.

The conformity assessment schemes are designed to prevent the import, manufacturing, and use of substandard products. In addition, SON, in collaboration with the Presidential Initiatives on CNG and other relevant government bodies, is finalizing the Nigerian Gas Vehicle Monitoring System (NGVMS) – a platform that will provide centralized monitoring and surveillance of CNG systems to ensure that only vehicles equipped with certified conversion kits can access gas at retail outlets”.

“The NGVMS will also offer a database of approved CNG equipment and suppliers which will go a long way in preventing substandard installations and further mitigating the associated risk, this initiative reassures the public that CNG safety is a top priority and reaffirms SON’S commitment to ensuring the safe use of CNG in Nigeria, while urging all stakeholders to prioritize safety and recognize that LPG and other gas cylinders are not suitable for CNG containment.

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) is unwavering in its commitment to the development of CNG products’ standards and their certification to meet safety requirements thereby enhancing safety in the CNG conversion process and strengthening the regulatory framework”, the statement read.

Credit: thenationonlineng.net