GCLA records progress in transporting hazardous chemicals

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Government Chemist Laboratory Authority (GCLA) has lauded Tanzania’s progress in securing transportation of hazardous chemicals, particularly cyanide, a toxic substance essential for gold extraction in the nation’s mining industry.

This positive development was highlighted on Wednesday `during a public awareness campaign conducted at Mbezi Luis bus station in Dar es Salaam.

Speaking at the event, chemist Derick Masako highlighted the country’s achievements in minimising the risks associated with transporting dangerous chemicals.

“Tanzania continues to excel in the safe handling and movement of toxic chemicals like cyanide. We have seen significant improvements, thanks to the stringent regulations and oversight mechanisms in place,” Mr Masako stated.

He added that such educational initiatives are key to sustaining this success and ensuring the safety of communities living near major transportation routes.

The public education campaign is part of ongoing efforts by the authority to raise awareness about the potential dangers of hazardous chemicals and to equip people with knowledge on safety precautions.

It specifically targets residents living along highways frequently used for chemical transport, emphasising the importance of caution and emergency response.

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The Taifa Transport and Logistic Limited, Health Safety Officer, Bestina Kitinya, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the impressive safety record maintained by her organisation.

“Since we started transporting these chemicals, we have not recorded any incidents or accidents. This is a testament to the comprehensive safety measures we have implemented and strictly adhere to,” Ms Kitinya explained.

She assured the public that her company’s safety protocols would remain robust and similar educational campaigns would be carried out across all regions where these chemicals are transported.

Ms Kitinya underscored the significance of community awareness, noting that preventive measures are more effective when the public is well-informed.

“Education is essential. By equipping people with the knowledge of how to act or whom to call in case of an emergency, we collectively reduce the risk of harm,” she added.

The campaign also served as a platform to remind motorists to exercise extra caution when sharing roads with vehicles transporting hazardous materials. Authorities stressed the importance of giving such trucks ample space and avoiding risky manoeuvres that could lead to accidents or chemical spills.

This reminder is crucial, as any mishap involving these chemicals could have devastating environmental and health impacts.

Education on the transportation and handling of hazardous chemicals is vital for safeguarding public health and the environment. It empowers communities with knowledge, enabling them to stay alert and react appropriately in case of an incident.

Additionally, such awareness initiatives foster cooperation between transport companies, government agencies and the public, creating a culture of shared responsibility for safety.

By understanding the risks and proper safety practices, residents living along chemical transportation routes become active participants in accident prevention, while transport companies are held accountable to the highest standards of safety.

This collaboration ultimately reduces the likelihood of chemical-related disasters and ensures that the benefits of industrial activities do not come at the expense of public or environmental health.

As Tanzania continues to develop its mining and industrial sectors, maintaining high safety standards in the transportation of hazardous chemicals will be crucial. Public education campaigns like the one at Mbezi Luis bus station are a step in the right direction, ensuring that everyone plays a part in keeping communities safe.