In an unprecedented move to bolster consumer safety, government oil companies in collaboration with their distributors have embarked on a sweeping campaign throughout New Delhi and the entire country to offer essential safety checks for domestic LPG gas connections at no cost. The All India LPG Distribution Federation has released a statement outlining that these checks will be conducted by delivery personnel or mechanics who will systematically visit consumer households, aiming to cover all 30 crore domestic gas consumers within the ensuing three to four months.
During a visit to deliver LPG cylinders, these trained professionals will not only perform an eight-point safety inspection but also serve as educators for the household, ensuring consumers are well-versed in safety guidelines. Their meticulous examination includes a thorough review of gas equipment to preclude any potential leakage risks, thus fortifying household safety.
In instances where the safety inspection identifies the orange-coloured safety hose as compromised, consumers will be offered a replacement at a nominal charge of Rs 150/- for a 1.5-meter hose. This not only enhances safety but also allows for the continued operation of their LPG systems without exorbitant expenses.
Chandra Prakash, President of the All India LPG Distribution Federation, has stressed that the primary objective of this initiative is consumer safety. Elaborating on the purpose, Prakash highlighted that financial incentives are not the driving force but rather a commitment to ensuring safe practices in the use of LPG connections. Moreover, he underlined the significance of adhering to these safety measures for eligibility in claiming third-party insurance should an accident occur.
LPG-related accidents in domestic settings can stem from a variety of causes. These include, but are not limited to, issues such as delayed replacement of worn hosepipes, theft from cylinders, unauthorized transferal of LPG between cylinder types, utilization of substandard equipment, improper handling at the premise of the consumer, malfunctioning O-rings, and leaks from either the LPG hose or stove. Catastrophic events like cylinder explosions can also result from excessive heat during fires from other origins.
Responding to the risks associated with LPG usage, Oil Marketing Companies (OMC) have instituted an encompassing ‘Public Liability Policy for Oil Industries’, which extends coverage to all registered LPG consumers. This policy specifically addresses damage or harm ensuing from incidents where LPG is deemed the primary source of ignition.
Current terms of the policy include a personal accident cover offering Rs 6 lakh per person in the event of a fatality. The policy also encompasses medical expenses up to Rs 30 lakh per incident, capping individual claims at Rs 2 lakh, and for property damage, a maximum of Rs 2 lakh per occurrence at the registered premises of the authorized customer is covered.
This initiative, spearheaded by Chandra Prakash and supported by the federation and government, underscores an essential pivot towards proactive measures for consumer well-being in the realm of domestic LPG usage. The collective drive exhibits a commitment not just to preemptively address safety concerns but to educate and equip consumers, establishing a safer and more informed populace. By championing the movement towards mandatory safety checks and the accessible replacement of detrimental equipment, this campaign is set to transform the landscape of LPG safety across the nation.
