The Gambia Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) successfully concluded a four-day training on Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) for seventy petroleum tanker truck drivers. The training, held at the National Nutrition Agency (NaNA) Conference Hall, aimed to bolster the knowledge and skills of drivers regarding health and safety protocols in the transportation of petroleum products by road. The primary objective of the training was to enhance awareness on operational and regulatory compliance within the petroleum transportation sector, in accordance with the Petroleum Products (Road Transport Business) Regulations 2018 and PURA prescribed guidelines for vehicles and other equipment transporting petroleum Products by road in the country.

The training covered topics on Defensive driving, emergency response procedures and environmental protection, traffic regulations and journey management as well as a practical session on routine vehicle inspection and the use of fire extinguishers.

Speaking at the closing ceremony on Thursday, 27th June, 2024, the Deputy Director General of PURA, Mr. Solo Sima, emphasised the importance of applying and disseminating the knowledge gained during the training.

He highlighted that improving health and safety in the petroleum sector requires collective effort and that this training is a significant step towards enhancing compliance and strengthening regulatory frameworks.

Mr. Sima also expressed his appreciation to Owl Surveillance Services, a Consulting firm and trainer, and the participants for their commitment and effective delivery of the training programme.

He stated: “It is envisaged that the training will lay a strong foundation towards improving compliance and strengthen regulatory frameworks in the petroleum sector.”

Biran Ceesay, who spoke on behalf of the participants, thanked PURA for organising the training.

He urged his fellow participants to utilize and implement the lessons learned to ensure safer practices in their daily operations.

The training underscores PURA’s dedication to improving safety standards in the petroleum transportation industry, ensuring that drivers are well-equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle their responsibilities safely and efficiently.