Bulawayo Fire Brigade Urges Regular Gas Cylinder Servicing After Khumalo House Explosion

By Pronellah Lunga

A recent gas explosion in Khumalo Suburbs has led the Bulawayo Fire Brigade to issue an urgent warning to residents about the importance of regular servicing for gas cylinders.

The explosion, which occurred on October 29, 2024, caused extensive property damage and left a 40-year-old woman with third-degree burns.

In an interview with Skyz Metro FM, Acting Divisional Officer of Operations at the Bulawayo Fire Brigade, Mr. Victor Jele, highlighted the need for routine testing and maintenance of gas cylinders to prevent such accidents.

“There are reputable companies that, when selling gas, offer a cylinder exchange service. This allows them to take the customer’s cylinder for servicing and perform pressure tests to ensure it’s in safe working condition. We urge the public to take their cylinders for servicing, as cylinders can deteriorate over time and may require maintenance or replacement,” said Mr. Jele.

He further emphasized the importance of regular inspections to ensure that gas cylinders are safe and fully functional.

Jele also warned against purchasing refurbished gas cylinders, which he noted pose a substantial explosion risk. He advised residents to only rely on reputable companies for cylinder servicing.

“Some gas cylinders, known as refurbished cylinders, may have been previously damaged or non-functional. These cylinders are often cut, repainted, and resold, which is extremely dangerous as they may not have undergone necessary pressure tests or servicing. It’s vital that people avoid these refurbished cylinders and instead buy from reputable companies,” he added.

Proper servicing of gas cylinders, according to Jele, is crucial for safe operation, helping to minimize the risk of explosions and other hazardous incidents.