FIRES IN HOUSEHOLDS AND FOOD PREMISES

FIRES IN HOUSEHOLDS AND FOOD PREMISES

53.

Dr Fatimah Lateef asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs (a) if he can provide the number of households and food premises over the last three years which had fires that were caused by problems relating to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) canisters or their hoses; and (b) what are the improvements and active measures undertaken to reduce these incidents.

Mr Wong Kan Seng: LPG-related fires over the last three years have been relatively low, making up less than 1% of total fires. In 2004, there were 48 LPG-related fires, 39 in households and nine in commercial premises. In 2005, there were 26 fires in 23 households and three commercial premises. In 2006, there were 32 fires in 26 households and six commercial premises. For this year, up to end May, the numbers have dropped to seven fires, six in households and one in commercial premises.

Even though the number of cases is small, SCDF has taken measures to minimise the occurrence of LPG-related fires. SCDF stipulates stringent safety requirements for LPG installation and usage. All operating food outlets are required to register their storage and use of LPG with SCDF annually if the quantity exceeds 200 kg. To set up a new LPG system for a food outlet, the owner has to engage a Qualified Person (QP) to submit plans complying with the technical guidelines in the Fire Code for approval. To allow for tiered checks, separate QPs are required to conduct a pressure test and inspect the LPG system. Only after both criteria have been satisfied can the owner apply for a storage licence from SCDF to use the LPG system. In addition, SCDF conducts regular enforcement checks to ensure the LPG systems are in good working condition.

As for households, LPG dealers are required by law to conduct safety checks for their household clients from time to time. These dealers are trained by their suppliers to inspect LPG cylinders, hoses and fittings.

SCDF also engages LPG suppliers and users directly in fire prevention, safety and education. In October 2006, SCDF and the National Fire Prevention Council or NFPC organised a Fire Safety Drive specifically targeted at preventing fires due to improper use

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of LPG cylinders. Major LPG suppliers supported the drive by handing out advisories on the safe handling and use of LPG cylinders to customers. An LPG-related fire safety quiz was also launched on the NFPC website to enhance awareness. The safe use of LPG cylinders is also a regular feature during the Emergency Preparedness Days and other community outreach events in the heartlands.

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