Safety Body Offers to Assist in Investigation of Lagos Explosion

The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), Nigeria chapter, has volunteered to assist in the ongoing investigation of the explosion which occurred at Abule Ado area of Lagos State last Sunday.

The Society in a statement issued yesterday by its President, Nsikak Ekam, said ASSP encouraged Nigerians to learn from tragic occurrences and understand that all accidents are preventable, adding: “We offer to serve in the ongoing investigation if invited.”

Ekam said: “Let us individually and collectively learn to respect safety rules and signs. Material things can be replaced but human life can’t. Human loss and suffering is immeasurable.

“Let us respect petroleum pipeline right of way and stop encroachment. Designated pipeline area is not a road or alternative road or free land. Ensure that certain businesses such as gas plants, petrol stations among others are safely situated outside residential area.

The ASSP, which will hold its conference on ‘Productivity and Profitability Matrices in HSE System’ this week in Abuja, commended the emergency services, firefighters, the Red Cross, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and Lagos Safety Commission for their prompt response, as well as the public for giving free passage to responders.

The group urged the government at all level and the public to proactively evaluate settlements and provide access for emergency response vehicles and fire water hydrants.

“New settlements and estates should be properly planned and ensure access for emergency response vehicles and fire water hydrants. Fire station/emergency centre provision should be added during conceptual planning and area development,” it said.

They also advised people to stay clear from fallen petroleum tanker, and not to attempt to scoop spilled product, but to report such incident immediately to nearest NEMA’s office or fire station.

The association urged the public to conduct proper risk assessment/environmental impact of business premises or sites, stating that they should ensure that premises or plants are constructed according to designs/standard specifications.

The Society, which condoled with the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the families of those who lost their beloved ones and those injured in the Sunday’s explosion, said it was deeply saddened at the tragic loss of lives and sufferings that Nigerians have been experiencing because of petroleum pipeline vandalism and petroleum pipeline fire.