The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has cautioned commercial drivers against refuelling vehicles with passengers onboard.

The Authority said such a practice endangered the lives of passengers as they were exposed to harmful chemicals.

Speaking at the NPA Central Regional sensitization durbar in Cape Coast, the Central Regional Manager of NPA, Mr. Michael Opoku-Obiri, said one of the primary risks associated with refuelling is the inhalation of toxic fumes.

He explained that gasoline contains harmful chemicals like benzene, a known carcinogen. These fumes can easily enter vehicles through open windows or doors, exposing passengers—especially children and the elderly—to health risks such as nausea, dizziness, and respiratory issues.

He noted that despite the open, well-ventilated nature of most fuel stations, drivers often overlook the dangers of trapped fumes inside vehicles.

Many drivers routinely stop at gas stations without asking passengers to exit the vehicle. Whether rushing to drop kids at school, heading to work, or running errands, refuelling with passengers inside the car is a common practice.

However, this seemingly harmless habit has serious safety implications, with the most significant danger being the risk of fire.

From January to July 2023, Ghana recorded 3,819 fire incidents across various sectors, with commercial and fuel-related fires being major contributors.

Mr. Opoku-Obiri indicated that the Authority had implemented several safety regulations to ensure public safety at fuel stations.

He explained that while refuelling may seem like a routine task, it carries significant risks that are often underestimated.

“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.

Mr. Opoku-Obiri also noted that although specific rules governing the refuelling of commercial vehicles are not publicly available in one comprehensive document, general safety guidelines and warnings are emphasised.

He gave the assurance that the NPA will continue its efforts to raise awareness, educate, and inform dealers of petroleum products, consumers, and passengers about the dangers of neglecting safety measures in the use of gas and fuel.

In her speech, the Paramount Queen Mother of Agona Nsaba, who also serves as the President of the Central Regional Queen Mothers Association, Nana Adwoa Nkansah Aduam III, called for stricter enforcement of the NPA regulations on refuelling vehicles with passengers onboard.

She noted that this practice posed significant health and safety risks to the public.

Nana Adwoa Nkansah Aduam III emphasised that the NPA must ensure stricter enforcement of its public safety mandate.

She commended the Authority for its ongoing efforts to educate the public on safety protocols within the petroleum industry.

However, she also called for further action, especially as the country approaches the dry season when the risk of fire incidents is heightened.

In light of the frequent fire outbreaks at gas and filling stations in recent years, Nana Aduam stressed the need for increased public education on safety measures related to fuel and gas usage.