ASSESSMENT OF THE SPATIAL LOCATION OF LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS REFILL POINTS IN CHIKUN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA: A QUEST FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY

Abstract

The increasing demand for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) as a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuels has led to the proliferation of refill points lacking iota of planning, consequently exposing residents of the study area to risk. This study addresses the need to balance energy accessibility with environmental safety by evaluating safety measures and risk prevention in retail facilities. Using accidental and snowball sampling techniques, data were collected via GPS devices and checklists and analyzed through frequencies and percentages. The findings reveal high compliance with access restrictions, safety protocol promotion, and the consideration of hazards and risks during planning. Strong adherence to emergency planning and response procedures was noted; however, many facilities failed to comply with requirements to build away from sensitive populations. Most facilities maintained the recommended 100-meter distance from each other, implemented perimeter fencing, and integrated safety considerations into their layouts. Clear signage indicating hazards and internal emergency plans were prevalent, and most had measures to mitigate accident consequences. While LPG refill points are essential for meeting community energy needs, their distribution and management can pose risks to environmental and public health if not properly regulated. The study recommends enhancing regulatory enforcement, increasing public education and awareness, conducting detailed Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), providing training and capacity building, and using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to identify high-risk areas for effective safety planning and implementation.