COMAC Uncovers Hazardous Safety Violations at Fuel Retail Outlets Across Northern Ghana

The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) has sounded a stern warning regarding persistent safety standard violations at fuel retail outlets in northern Ghana. Following a recent mystery shopping exercise conducted across the region, the organization revealed a shocking level of non-compliance among both motorists and station attendants. Dr. Riverson Oppong, the Chief Executive Officer of COMAC, expressed deep concern over the flagrant disregard for basic safety protocols, which poses significant risks of fire outbreaks and environmental hazards in these operational areas.

During the assessment, COMAC investigators documented several alarming practices that have become commonplace at these stations. Key among the violations was the practice of motorists refueling their motorcycles while still mounted, a high-risk behavior that can lead to catastrophic accidents if fuel spills onto a hot engine. The exercise also uncovered the widespread use of inappropriate containers, such as plastic bottles, for transporting fuel. In one particularly harrowing instance, a father and his young son were observed refueling a motorcycle in an entirely unsafe manner, illustrating a lack of public awareness regarding the volatility of petroleum products.

Beyond consumer behavior, the mystery shopping exercise also scrutinized the technical and operational standards of the fuel stations themselves. The COMAC compliance and operations team evaluated the functionality of Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG) systems, which are critical for monitoring fuel levels and detecting leaks. The findings suggested that many outlets are facing ongoing challenges with these systems, potentially compromising the accuracy of inventory management and the early detection of underground environmental threats.

In response to these findings, COMAC has announced plans to compile a comprehensive report detailing the observed lapses. This document will be shared with the Chamber's member companies and the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) to facilitate a coordinated effort to enforce stricter safety measures. By collaborating with the industry regulator, COMAC aims to implement enhanced training for station staff and launch public education campaigns to ensure that safety remains the paramount priority at fuel retail points across the northern regions.