PETROL FILLING STATION FIRE SAFETY ASSESSMENT IN ZOMBA, MALAWI

The global increase in petrol filling stations (PFSs) reflects the rising demand for petroleum products. In many developing nations, however, numerous new PFSs fail to meet essential operational standards. Neglecting national guidelines during their establishment and lacking proper operational oversight render some PFSs potential fire hazards to their immediate surroundings. The study aimed to assess the safety of petrol filling stations from fire in Zomba, Malawi, considering the fire-risk posed by petrol stations, and the implications for public safety, as well as preparedness for large fires or explosions. In order to achieve this, the study firstly assessed the current compliance level of petrol filling stations to fire safety standards regarding the availability of fire preventive and controlling equipment. Secondly, the study examined the fire safety awareness of pump attendants regarding the fire safety practices. Thirdly, the study assessed the adherence of petrol stations owners regarding the fire safety trainings of the employees. The study sampled and examined the fire safety awareness of 45 fuel pump attendants and evaluated the compliance of 19 active PFSs in Zomba, Malawi, with regulatory standards. Data collection methods included interviewer-administered questionnaires, field measurements, and observational assessments, visualized using Microsoft Excel and SPSS. Findings reveal that while most pump attendants are knowledgeable about fire causes and safety measures, only 42% have certification from the Malawi National Fire Service to work as pump attendants, despite 89% claiming proficiency in using fire extinguishers. Additionally, 58% of PFSs are situated more than 30-meter radius of residential areas. Some PFSs in Zomba city violate national regulatory guidelines in their setup and operations, compromising safety. These results suggest that the siting of petrol stations does not comply with the international and national good practices, thus exposing the surrounding developments to fires and explosions. The results also suggest that land-use planning does not consider hazards created by petrol stations. In addition, while observation at petrol stations suggests the potential for major fires, preparedness to respond to petrol station fires appears low due to the prioritization of more frequent events. It is recommended that regulatory bodies reassess and monitor PFS activities in the community, investigating noncompliance and implementing appropriate measures

The study aimed to assess the safety of petrol filling stations from fire in Zomba, Malawi, considering the fire-risk posed by petrol stations, and the implications for public safety, as well as preparedness for large fires or explosions. In order to achieve this, the study firstly assessed the current compliance level of petrol filling stations to fire safety standards regarding the availability of fire preventive and controlling equipment. Findings reveal that while most pump attendants are knowledgeable about fire causes and safety measures, only 42% have certification from the Malawi National Fire Service to work as pump attendants, despite 89% claiming proficiency in using fire extinguishers. In addition, while observation at petrol stations suggests the potential for major fires, preparedness to respond to petrol station fires appears low due to the prioritization of more frequent events.

The study was conducted in Zomba city Malawi. Zomba is located in the south-eastern region of Malawi. (see Figure 3). It is situated approximately 60 to 65 kilometers from Blantyre ( IIFLA 2015). The town’s global positioning coordinates system is -15° 23' 9.46'' South (S) and 35° 19' 7.68'' East(E) (IFLA, 2015).

District: Zomba

Coordinates: -15.43925, 35.42105