Kota Kinabalu: Developers and stakeholders of inland gas pipelines are urged not to ignore standards, in the wake of the Putra Heights gas pipeline blast in Selangor.
Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (FRD) Deputy Director General (Operations) Dato Ir. Ts. Ahmad Izram Osman said all parties involved have legally agreed to adhere to meticulous safety protocols.
“If they do, then there is nothing to worry about. Transporting gas via pipelines is generally safer compared to trains or road tankers,” he said.
He was commenting on the pipeline blast which injured 111 people and displaced more than 500 on April 1.
“People need not worry about gas pipelines. Regular maintenance and inspections, according to schedule, leave very little room for disaster.
“In this case, the pipes were located on reserve land. The developers should follow procedures set by agencies like the Department of Occupational Safety and Health, the city council and even the FRD,” he said.
Sabah firemen, he said, are ready to handle such disasters and are nearing 92 per cent preparedness in terms of assets and manpower.
“It’s still a work in progress, but we have recruited many firemen this year to fulfil the manpower needs. The necessary measures are always taken to ensure that assets are sufficient and ready. The most important thing is competency.
“We can have the best assets, but if personnel aren’t competent, then there is no point,” he said at an honorary parade for outgoing Sabah FRD Chief Zainal Madisin, who had served 39 years as a fireman.
Besides keeping fit, he said he plans to cooperate with NGOs to help the community, using his experience gained from his time in Kelantan.
“NGOs are regarded as the third force. Those in Sabah need all the support they can get to help those affected by disasters,” he said. He told young firemen that they will face highly uncomfortable challenges in their career paths.
“What’s important is committing to the Government, following leadership, being competent and disciplined and you will find success,” he said. Former Melaka FRD Chief Pisar Aziz will assume the post this coming Monday.
