The explosion at a gas filling station near Kabansora in Embakasi, Nairobi, on Thursday night resulted in a major incident, causing severe consequences, including over 200 injuries and multiple fatalities.

The blast occurred around 11:45pm at an illegal gas refilling station adjacent to Nyayo Estate Court 5, sending fireballs high into the night sky.

As of 4:30 am, reports from Embakasi East OCPD Wesley Kimeto indicated that one adult and a minor had succumbed to burns from the fire at the site.

A flying gas cylinder struck and ignited Oriental Godown, a garment and textile warehouse, causing extensive damage to vehicles, commercial properties, and nearby businesses. 

The ensuing fire also spread to residential houses, posing a threat to residents who were still inside during the late-night incident.

This tragic event has caused significant emotional and economic distress for affected families, leading to loss of lives and injuries.

Urgent response efforts were initiated immediately after the incident, with many injured individuals rushed to the hospital for medical attention. 

The explosion has created shockwaves in the local community, raising concerns about the safety and regulatory measures for gas filling stations. 

The profound impact on affected families and the broader community underscores the need for support and assistance during this difficult time.

Kentainers Company Ltd is situated near Embakasi Village, off Airport North Road in Nairobi, Kenya, and is engaged in the manufacturing and distribution of water storage tanks, sanitation products, and related items. 

This location, close to residential areas, has raised concerns about the safety of industries near residential zones, particularly following the recent gas explosion at a filling station near Kabansora in Embakasi. 

A resident expressed, “ We’ve been telling the authorities for ages that this place was a ticking time bomb. But they did nothing, and now a man is dead because of their negligence”

NEMA is Kenya’s regulatory body overseeing environmental matters and enforcing compliance with environmental legislation. 

EPRA, on the other hand, regulates the energy sector, including electricity, renewable energy, and petroleum, covering various aspects of production, distribution, and utilization.

Residents in Embakasi, in response to the tragic event, express concerns about the unresolved issues and previous pleas that had not been addressed by involved parties. 

They question the direction the country is heading, particularly in the context of regulatory bodies like NEMA and EPRA.

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Kenyans on Twitter highlight the potential corruption within these regulatory bodies, emphasizing the gravity of allowing gas handling factories in residential areas.

The heartbreaking incident near JKIA in Embakasi raises broader concerns about the state of the country and the effectiveness of regulatory measures.

To prevent industrial accidents like the recent one near Kabansora in Embakasi, implement machine guarding, lockout/tagout, hazard communication, respiratory protection, and fall protection.

Improved regulatory oversight involves effective controls for worker protection and utilizing the hierarchy of controls to minimize workplace hazards.

Ensuring clear communication of safety instructions and adopting the latest technology for accident prevention are essential components of regulatory oversight.

Industrial incidents, such as the recent one near Kabansora in Embakasi, can result in substantial economic consequences, including productivity loss, compensation costs, and potential legal consequences.

Workplace accidents may lead to diminished productivity, reduced sales, lowered staff morale, reputational damage, and, in severe cases, closure. 

The repercussions of industrial incidents on local businesses, employment, and the economy can be severe, potentially causing long-term consequences. 

Striking a balance between economic growth and safety is essential for the well-being of workers, the surrounding community, and the long-term sustainability of businesses and the economy.