Guyana’s Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC) has initiated an investigation into recent incidents involving a particular brand of cooking gas cylinders. These incidents have led to serious injuries to consumers and substantial property damage. The CCAC’s inquiry aims to determine the cause of these dangerous occurrences and ensure the safety of consumers using the brand in question.
The Commission has expressed its heartfelt sympathy to those affected and their families, while assuring them of private support during this difficult time
In a press release issued yesterday the CCAC reminded suppliers of goods and services of their obligations under Part X, Section 78 of the Consumer Affairs Act No. 13 of 2011, which outlines the requirement for goods and services to meet general safety standards.
Specifically, the Act prohibits the supply, offering, or possession of goods that fail to comply with safety regulations. Violators of this section can face legal consequences.
In response to the initial complaints filed by affected individuals, the CCAC says they have initiated a formal investigation. The inquiry will involve consultations with industry experts to assess the situation and provide recommendations based on their findings.
The Commission has committed to pursuing the investigation until there is adequate resolution and redress for the affected consumers.
In the interim, the CCAC is urging all consumers to exercise heightened caution and adhere strictly to safety protocols when using cooking gas products.
Guyana has had four explosions involving cooking gas cylinders in recent months.
On December 17th, a family in Little Abary, Region Five grappled with the aftermath of a 20-lb gas bottle explosion that rocked their home leaving them without basic necessities, and seeking answers from the supplier.
On November 30th, Stabroek News reported that a life-threatening situation was narrowly avoided in a Better Hope home on November 29 thanks to the quick thinking and calm actions of Necolese Alexander, a career ICU nurse.
On August 29th, Massy Gas said it was ready to aid in the probe of an explosion of a 20-lb cylinder that allegedly belonged to it. The notice referred to an incident at a home on 1st August, 2024. It said that it had visited the family in question and had expressed sympathies to the husband of the occupant who was injured.
The most recent incident left two persons hospitalized in critical condition at the Georgetown Public Hospital’s Burn Care Unit, following an explosion at their Foulis, East Coast Demerara home on Saturday morning.
Consumers are encouraged to report any related complaints or safety concerns via the CCAC website at ccac.gov.gy or through WhatsApp at (592)-625-0557.
