Two National Standards governing LPG cylinders and low-pressure regulators have been approved as compulsory by the Government, following consumer concerns over explosions and leaks at homes across the country.
The move comes after the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) undertook a review of standards GYS 264, covering LPG cylinder specifications, storage, handling and transportation, and GYS 523, covering low-pressure regulators, in 2025, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce said.
That revision was carried out by a Technical Committee comprising the Environmental Protection Agency, Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), Guyana Fire Service, Guyana Revenue Authority, Massy Gas, GUYGAS Inc and the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission, with input from the petroleum industry and the public gathered over a 60-day consultation period.
Under the updated GYS 264 standard, cylinders must now meet recognised safety specifications, be appropriately stamped, and be permanently marked with tare weight, water capacity, serial number, manufacturer details and test dates. They must also carry a safety relief device, a securely welded shroud or neck ring, and a foot ring for stable, upright positioning, while remaining free from dents, corrosion, bulging or damaged parts.
Alongside this, the GYS 523 standard specifies materials, construction, performance and testing requirements for low-pressure single-stage and two-stage LPG regulators, including resistance to season cracking for brass parts and zinc-based alloy covers for higher-capacity units.
With both standards now compulsory, suppliers and manufacturers will be required to ensure full compliance, a step the Ministry said will enhance safety and give consumers greater confidence in equipment on the market.
Implementation will involve the GEA monitoring GYS 264 and the GNBS monitoring GYS 523.
The Ministry is inviting representations on the proposed standards to be submitted to the Executive Director, GNBS, on or before September 30, and is encouraging consumers, importers and distributors to familiarise themselves with the requirements. Copies are available at the GNBS Head Office in Sophia, Georgetown, and on the GNBS website.
