The Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) has warned petrol filling stations and fuel service providers nationwide that petroleum products must only be dispensed into containers specifically designed, approved and suitable for the safe storage and transport of fuel.
The agency warned that dispensing gasoline or diesel into unsuitable containers, including household plastic bottles, glass jars, open buckets or other damaged or unapproved vessels, poses serious safety risks.
It said such practices could result in fires, explosions, spills and environmental contamination. Improper containers may leak, rupture, generate static electricity or fail when exposed to heat, thereby endangering customers, staff and surrounding property.
The GEA urged filling stations to refuse dispensing fuel into any container not intended for petroleum storage and to ensure only approved fuel containers made of suitable material and clearly marked for fuel use are accepted.
It further advised station operators to inspect containers for visible damage, cracks, leaks or missing caps before dispensing, and to train pump attendants to identify unsafe containers and enforce compliance.
Operators were also encouraged to display clear signage outlining acceptable fuel container requirements.
According to the agency, approved fuel containers should be constructed of fuel-resistant materials, have secure, leak-proof caps, be clearly labelled or certified for gasoline or diesel storage, and be kept in good condition, free of cracks, corrosion or damage.
The GEA said these measures are necessary to protect public safety, reduce fire risks and ensure compliance with national safety standards governing the handling of petroleum products.
It urged operators to exercise vigilance and responsibility, adding that safety begins at the pump and fuel should only be dispensed into containers fit for purpose.
