Suppliers asked to install sensors in enclosed spaces with gas piping

The Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) has instructed gas suppliers to install alarm systems in enclosed spaces containing gas piping, such as warehouses and buildings, following a gas explosion at a Kumamoto Prefecture shopping mall in July. These enclosed spaces also include schools and hospitals, which are found in tens of thousands across the country.

Currently, gas sensor alarms must be installed near gas tanks and devices like stoves, but this rule does not apply to areas where gas pipes are present. This requirement was proposed during talks on Sept. 8 by an expert panel member discussing ways to prevent similar incidents. METI's industry minister Ryosei Akazawa announced the new measures at a press conference, stating that such actions would be taken swiftly if they are deemed effective in mitigating damage, even before the cause of the incident is determined.

Following the explosion, METI conducted joint on-site inspections with police and fire authorities, concluding that the blast was likely caused by liquefied petroleum gas supplied to the facility. Gas leaks from pipes damaged by earthquakes often collect in enclosed spaces with limited ventilation, such as warehouses or rooms with few windows.