Engineers’ group calls for review of safety measures after pipeline fire

Engineers’ group calls for review of safety measures after pipeline fire

The Institution of Engineers Malaysia raises concerns over the proximity of combustible facilities to residential areas and the adequacy of existing safety measures.

The fire, which broke out yesterday morning at Jalan Putra Harmoni near two residential areas, raged for nearly eight hours before it was fully extinguished at 3.45pm. (Bernama pic)
PETALING JAYA:
An engineering body has called for a thorough review of safety protocols around high-risk facilities following the gas pipeline fire in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya, yesterday.

The Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) said it was ready to offer its support and guidance to government agencies and local authorities in investigating the incident.

“One major concern is the proximity of the combustible facility to nearby residential areas,” it said in a statement today.

“Additionally, the adequacy of existing safety measures and protections must be thoroughly reviewed and, if necessary, upgraded.”

The fire, which broke out yesterday morning at Jalan Putra Harmoni near two residential areas, raged for nearly eight hours before it was fully extinguished at 3.45pm.

Recent police data indicates 87 premises were destroyed and 148 significantly damaged. Of the 399 vehicles affected, 225 were burnt and 174 sustained damage.

As of yesterday, 364 people from 74 families had been evacuated to relief centres at the Putra Heights Mosque and the Subang Jaya City Council multipurpose hall.

At least 111 people were injured, with many requiring hospitalisation for burns and respiratory issues.

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