Towards A Safer Energy Future: Transforming Bangladesh's Household Gas Safety

Bangladesh has seen a steady rise in domestic gas usage, making gas cooking appliances essential part of everyday life. Yet the lack of standardized safety regulations has contributed to a growing number of gas-related accidents, including leaks, fires, and explosions, resulting in injuries and fatalities.

- Mortuza Ahmad Faruque

From high-rise apartments in Dhaka to rural kitchens powered by piped natural gas or LPG cylinders, millions of households rely on gas daily. While it is a vital energy source, it carries serious risks that continue to threaten lives, damage property, and place immense pressure on national burn-care facilities.

Recognizing the urgency of addressing these risks, the Asian Development Bank's Technical Assistance project TA 10187-BAN: Promoting Energy Transition, Safety and Energy Efficiency in the Energy Sector initiative, jointly implemented with Petrobangla under Output 5, extended support to BSTI to develop Bangladesh's first internationally aligned safety standards for domestic gas cooking appliances. In mid-2024, ADB engaged a consultant team led by highly experienced International Gas Appliance Safety Standards Specialist Mr. Chris Evans, supported by National Standards Specialist Mr. A. S. M. Manzurul Quader, and National Gas Specialist Mr. Mortuza Ahmad Faruque.

Recently, BSTI formally approved three new standards: BDS ISO 21364 Parts 1, 21, and 22, marking the first time Bangladesh adopted global best practices for domestic gas cooking appliances. However, the approval of safety standards alone cannot prevent accidents. True safety can only be achieved when these standards are effectively institutionalized, mandated, and monitored, supported by nationwide awareness and capacity-building efforts. This milestone marks a historic advancement in Bangladesh's approach to household gas safety, but it is only the beginning. Meaningful improvements require a complete ecosystem: laws that mandate compliance, laboratories to verify conformity, inspectors to enforce standards, informed consumers who follow safe practices, and a skilled workforce trained in proper installation and maintenance.