With the increase in demand for LPGas during winter, the Liquid Petroleum Gas Safety Association of Southern Africa has reported an increase in illegal activities by criminals who threaten public safety and put lives at risk by illegally filling cylinders.
A recent statement released by the Liquid Petroleum Gas Safety Association of Southern Africa in the interest of public safety states: “A common practice these days is for some to commandeer LPGas cylinders which are the legal property of the brand owner, in most cases one of the major wholesale companies which make the cylinders available to the public on a deposit based system.

These companies/individuals then refill these cylinders and recirculate the illegally refilled cylinders back into the market for their own commercial gain.

“It is noted that one of the major outlets for such LPGas cylinders is via ‘petrol stations/forecourts’ where the owners purchase illegally filled cylinders from unauthorised dealers – often without realising the inherent dangers which these cylinders may pose or the fact that they are breaking the law and also participating in the proceeds of unlawful activities.

“Please ensure that your supplier is properly authorised and the LPGas cylinders you sell/exchange have been legally filled in terms of the requirements of the Occupational Health & Safety Act, Pressure Equipment Regulations. Failure to comply could have serious consequences.”

Afrox Head of LPG, Mark Radford, says that to safeguard its customers, Afrox Handigas invests substantial effort and resources each year in an attempt to put a stop to illegal and unethical practices by illegal traders who put lives and property at risk. “We also constantly inspect and audit customers to ensure LPG installations are safe and meet national, local fire department and municipal safety standards,” says Radford. “Afrox guarantees that all the right quality and safety checks have been carried out by the experts. As proof of this, every Handigas cylinder has an Afrox branded red seal with a unique serial number over the cylinder valve and a similar seal is used by distributors authorised to fill these cylinders.”

“Do not be fooled by what may appear to be a legitimate business selling Afrox Handigas – if it is not an Afrox Gas & Gear or an accredited Afrox Handigas distributor, then the cylinders are illegally filled (SANS 10019).

If you are sold Afrox Handigas without the appropriate Afrox Red Seal or the Afrox distributor Red Seal of safety, shrink-wrapped over the cylinder valve, you are buying a potentially hazardous product. We urge consumers not to support these criminal enterprises and to report instances immediately by calling Afrox on 0860 020202 or sending an e-mail to customer.service@afrox.linde.com,” says Radford.