Kenya’s energy regulator has moved to tighten enforcement of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) safety standards following a string of accidents that have raised alarm over public safety.
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced stricter oversight of LPG traders after multiple incidents exposed dangerous lapses in storage, transportation, and handling of gas cylinders across the country.
Rising LPG Accidents Trigger Crackdown
According to EPRA, eight major LPG-related incidents were recorded last year alone. Among the most tragic was a cylinder explosion in Nairobi’s Githurai area that claimed the lives of two residents. In a separate incident in Machakos County, a fallen gas cylinder severely injured a market vendor, highlighting the risks posed by improper stacking and handling practices.
The growing number of accidents has intensified scrutiny of traders who operate outside established safety regulations.
Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, EPRA Director General Sanjay Brahmbhatt underscored the urgency of the matter, stating that safety compliance is non-negotiable.
“We have observed repeated violations by some traders, including storing cylinders in residential areas and overstacking, which puts lives at risk. EPRA will not hesitate to take strict action against anyone found flouting the law,” he said.
Legal Framework Governing LPG Trade
EPRA cited the Petroleum Act and the Petroleum (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) Regulations, 2025 as the key legal instruments guiding the licensing, handling, storage, and distribution of LPG in Kenya.
Under these regulations, all LPG traders must operate strictly with a valid EPRA licence. Additionally, traders must obtain written consent from the legally registered brand owner for each cylinder they sell — a measure aimed at curbing illegal refilling and cross-brand cylinder misuse.
The regulator warned that operating without proper authorisation or tampering with branded cylinders amounts to a serious offence.
Strict Requirements for LPG Traders
To strengthen consumer protection and enhance accountability, EPRA outlined several mandatory requirements for LPG traders:
- Possession of a valid EPRA licence
- Written brand owner consent for every cylinder sold
- A valid fire safety certificate
- A calibrated weighing scale to ensure accurate measurement
- Issuance of receipts detailing cylinder information
Receipts must include the cylinder brand, serial number, net weight, price, and any deposit charged where applicable.
The regulator emphasised that meticulous record-keeping is essential to trace products in the event of safety incidents.
Storage and Transportation Standards Tightened
EPRA further reiterated strict standards for storage and transportation of LPG cylinders.
Traders are required to:
- Segregate full and empty cylinders
- Avoid overstacking that could cause cylinders to topple
- Store cylinders in well-ventilated, designated areas away from residential premises
- Display clear safety information at points of sale
Improper stacking, overcrowded storage spaces, and unauthorised residential storage were cited as some of the most common violations observed during inspections.
“These unsafe practices significantly increase the risk of explosions and fires, endangering not just traders but entire communities,” EPRA warned.
Immediate Enforcement and Penalties
The Authority made it clear that non-compliance will attract swift and decisive enforcement action.
Penalties for violations may include:
- Immediate prosecution
- Hefty fines
- Suspension of licences
- Revocation of licences
Dr. Brahmbhatt revealed that in 2025 alone, EPRA revoked the licences of two non-compliant traders operating in Nairobi and Nakuru counties.
“Any trader found operating illegally, refilling cylinders without approval, or compromising storage and transportation standards will face prosecution,” he said.
He stressed that the regulator’s primary objective is to protect consumers and ensure a safe LPG supply chain.
Public Urged to Report Violations
Recognising the role of public vigilance, EPRA called on Kenyans to report suspected violations or unsafe LPG practices.
Members of the public can contact the regulator via email at info@epra.go.ke or by calling +254 709 336 000. The Authority assured whistleblowers of full confidentiality.
“We all have a role to play in safeguarding our communities. Reporting unsafe practices can prevent unnecessary deaths and injuries,” Dr. Brahmbhatt stated.
Growing LPG Use in Kenya
The crackdown comes at a time when LPG adoption is steadily increasing in Kenya, driven by government efforts to promote cleaner cooking alternatives and reduce reliance on charcoal and firewood.
As more households shift to LPG, ensuring safety compliance throughout the supply chain has become increasingly critical.
Industry experts note that while LPG remains a safe and efficient energy source when handled properly, negligence and regulatory breaches can quickly turn cylinders into deadly hazards.
EPRA’s Commitment to a Safer Market
EPRA reiterated its commitment to fostering a safe, reliable, and fully compliant LPG market for all Kenyans.
The regulator emphasised that its enforcement approach is not intended to stifle business but to eliminate rogue operators whose actions undermine consumer trust and threaten public safety.
With stricter monitoring and heightened inspections expected in the coming months, LPG traders are now under pressure to fully align with the law — or risk facing serious consequences.
As the country grapples with the aftermath of recent LPG accidents, the message from EPRA is clear: compliance is mandatory, and public safety comes first.