By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
Monrovia – The Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia (EPA) has completed its investigation into the September 15 explosion at the MIRA Gas Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Plant in the CEMENCO Community along the Japan Freeway in Monrovia.
The tragic incident left one person dead and several others injured.
According to the EPA, the explosion was caused by a leaking pipe connection between a delivery tanker and the plant’s storage tank.
The investigation revealed a series of safety lapses, including poor maintenance of tanks and pipelines, inadequate fire safety measures, the absence of gas detectors and alarms, and a lack of proper staff training in LPG handling and emergency procedures.
The Agency also highlighted that MIRA Gas was operating in an area originally designated as an industrial zone but which has since developed into a semi-residential and mixed-use community.
The EPA said it would reassess whether large-scale LPG storage remains suitable at the site, particularly given the risks to surrounding communities.
Investigators found that MIRA Gas had breached multiple provisions of its operating permit, including the failure to prepare health and safety plans, emergency response protocols, and leak detection systems.
The company also failed to install adequate firefighting equipment, employ a qualified safety officer, submit required monitoring reports, and notify the EPA of the incident within the stipulated timeframe.
As a result, the EPA has imposed a fine of US$10,000 on MIRA Gas. The company has also been ordered to suspend operations until critical safety upgrades are completed and verified.
These upgrades include the installation of fire suppression systems, gas detectors, and alarms, as well as the development of an emergency preparedness plan, preventive maintenance program, and mandatory safety training for employees.
MIRA Gas must also hire a qualified Environmental Health and Safety Officer.
The EPA has directed the company to submit a written compliance plan within 14 working days.
Failure to comply, the Agency warned, could result in higher fines, suspension or revocation of its operating permit, or referral for prosecution under Liberia’s environmental laws.
The EPA said it will carry out follow-up inspections to ensure compliance and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health, workplace safety, and the environment.
