The Consumers Foundation yesterday said the frequent accidents that occur from old and worn-out gas cylinders could be minimized if authorities adopted standards that prohibit the use of bottled gas containers over 20 years old.
As of the end of February, approximately 14.55 million gas cylinders were in circulation around the country, with as many as 8.5 million, or nearly 60 percent, of them more than 20 years old, said Hwang Yu-sheng (黃鈺生), secretary-general of the foundation, citing data from the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Container Association.
The consumer rights watchdog said that from the beginning of last year to February this year, 38 accidents involving gas explosions or leaks were reported, nearly three accidents each month.
“Worn-out cylinders are prone to rust and leakage, which can cause fires. The 8.5 million bottles more than 20 years old are literally bombs waiting to go off,” he said.
Hwang said there have been numerous incidents in the past when people discovered leaks in cylinders.
The foundation said the Japanese government prohibits bottled gas outlets from using tanks more than 20 years old, while the Chinese government sets the limit at eight years.
Limiting the maximum age of bottles could reduce accidents, but so far the Taiwanese government has done nothing to set a limit on the number of years they can be used, Hwang said.
The foundation urged those who use bottled gas to remember to check the cylinders’ inspection dates and refuse to accept those that have not been properly inspected or lack such labels.
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