No cause for alarm over LPG cylinder safety - authorities

In a joint statement issued by the competition and consumer affairs authority (MCCAA) and the resources authority (MRA), it was explained that the fact that an LPG cylinder might not clearly display the serial numbers and/or manufacturer’s details as required by law, means that they are not compliant with the regulations. “This does not make them unsafe,” the authorities said.

MCCAA and MRA assured consumers that they are working together to ensure that all LPG gas cylinders clearly display serial numbers and/or manufacturer’s details as required by law.

Both authorities explained that they are taking all necessary action, “including but not limited to enforcement measures as contemplated by law, to ensure that only compliant cylinders reach consumers.”

The re-testing and proper marking of all gas cylinders found to be non-compliant has been ordered, the authorities said.

MCCAA and MRA added that “only after this exercise has been carried out, can these same LPG cylinders be placed on the market. Moreover random checks at filling stations and on gas distributors, to ensure that they were not given non-compliant LPG gas cylinders, will be performed.”

MCCAA and MRA issued a list of recommendations to consumers:

1. Consumers should verify that  LPG cylinders they have at home bear serial numbers and/or manufacturer’s details on their shroud/body;

2. Consumers should be more vigilant and ensure that when buying LPG cylinders, the said markings are present.  If not, they have the right to refuse such cylinders.

Consumers have been urged to immediately lodge reports with either the Malta Resources Authority on 2295 5000 or the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority on 2395 2000.