The Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia (EPA) has fined MIRA Gas Incorporated 10,000 United States Dollars and ordered the immediate closure of its LPG facility in the CEMENCO Community, following a deadly explosion on September 15 that left one person dead and several others injured.
The EPA investigation found that a leak between a delivery tanker and the site’s storage tank caused the explosion.
The probe uncovered serious safety violations, including:Poor equipment maintenance, No emergency response plan, Lack of fire safety and gas detection systems, Inadequate staff training, Absence of an on-site Environmental Health & Safety Officer, and Failure to report the incident or submit environmental monitoring reports.
Although MIRA Gas was originally permitted to operate in an industrial zone, the area has since become semi-residential, prompting the EPA to reassess the site’s long-term suitability.
As part of the enforcement action; operations are suspended until the company meets stringent safety and compliance requirements, including: Installing fire suppression and gas detection systems, Developing a full emergency response plan and Instituting a preventive maintenance and training program.
Other recommendations include: Hiring a qualified Environmental Health & Safety Officer and Submitting a detailed compliance plan within 14 working days.
The EPA emphasized that non-compliance will result in additional penalties, permit revocation, and potential legal action under Liberian Environmental Law.
The EPA said it remains fully committed to protecting public health, ensuring workplace safety, and enforcing environmental laws.