Gas stations must strictly adhere to approved fuel handling & dispensing practices – GEA

See full statement from the Guyana Energy Agency:

The Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) advises that it became aware of social media posts on April 13, 2026, highlighting unsafe fuel dispensing practices at certain service stations, reportedly arising from public concern regarding fuel availability.

In the first instance where the service station was clearly identifiable, the Agency made immediate contact with the operator, who indicated that prompt corrective action would be taken to address the issue.

In response to additional reports circulating on social media, the GEA, on April 13, 2026, issued a regulatory safety advisory and compliance directive to service stations (see below). This directive emphasized the need to strictly adhere to approved fuel handling and dispensing practices, with particular focus on preventing the use of unsafe containers and mitigating associated public safety risks.

The Agency continues to monitor the situation closely and encourages members of the public to report specific instances of non-compliance. Such reports will enable the GEA to take appropriate regulatory and enforcement action where necessary.

Petrol Filling Stations Urged to Dispense Fuel Only into Fit-for-Purpose Containers

The Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) wishes to remind all petrol filling stations and fuel service providers across Guyana that petroleum products must only be dispensed into containers that are specifically designed, approved, and fit for the safe storage and transport of fuel.

Dispensing gasoline or diesel into unsuitable containers—such as household plastic bottles, glass jars, open buckets, or damaged/unapproved vessels—poses serious fire, explosion, spill, and environmental hazards. Improper containers may leak, rupture, generate static electricity, or fail under heat exposure, placing customers, staff, and surrounding property at risk.

Filling Stations Are Advised To:

1. Refuse the dispensing of fuel into any container not intended for petroleum storage.
2. Ensure that only approved fuel containers made of suitable material and clearly marked for fuel use are accepted.
3. Inspect containers for visible damage, cracks, leaks, or missing caps before dispensing.
4. Train pump attendants to identify unsafe containers and enforce compliance consistently.
5. Display clear signage informing customers of acceptable fuel container requirements.

Approved Fuel Containers Should:

* Be constructed of fuel-resistant materials;

* Have secure, leak-proof caps;

* Be clearly labeled or certified for gasoline/diesel storage;

* Be in good condition, free of cracks, corrosion, or damage.

These precautions are essential to protect public safety, reduce fire risks, and ensure compliance with national safety standards governing petroleum handling.

The GEA urges all filling station operators to exercise vigilance and responsibility in enforcing safe fuel dispensing practices.

Safety begins at the pump—only fill fuel into containers fit for purpose.