Latest update August 9th, 2026 12:45 AM
May 26, 2019 News, Standards in Focus
The transport of petroleum and petroleum products using bulk transportation carriers is a daily business for many truck owners in Guyana. Because of the volatility of these products and the threat they pose to the safety of their transporter and other road users, a national standard was developed by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS).
The standard was developed to be enforced by the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA).
According to the standard “Requirements for the transport of petroleum and petroleum products by bulk transportation carriers” (GYS 513:2016), a bulk transportation carrier is a “vehicle or vessel capable of transporting 2000 litres or more of petroleum and petroleum products”.
Usually, these bulk carriers transport containment such as drums, bottles and similar containers of petroleum products from terminals or bulk storages to retail outlets. In many instances, these carriers, which are trucks and canters with modified trays, are used to sell directly to the consumers.
To reduce risks in the transport of petroleum and petroleum products, particularly by those taking such products into the interior and other unfavourable terrains, the standard adequately addresses a number of crucial aspects.
Firstly, it addresses the condition of containment and clearly states that containment shall not be used if they have evidence of dents corrosions, leakages or any other condition that may render them unsafe for the transport of products.
The types of materials from which such containments are constructed, are also indicated. The use of glass containment is strictly prohibited by the standard.
The standard also outlines requirements for the storage and security of containment during transport, including the railings of trays and the manner in which the transporting crew handles products. Requirements for maintenance and repairs of bulk transportation carriers are also included.
Owners of bulk transportation carriers used for the transport of petroleum and petroleum products are also required to ensure that their carriers are fitted with fire extinguishers, appropriate warning signs, placards, and illuminating lights.
Operators must have the relevant training and contingency plan to deal with emergencies, if they are to comply with the national standard.
The acquisition of this standard and conformance to the requirements therein, no doubt will ensure safety in the transport of petroleum and petroleum products on our roadways and it will also ensure that dealers meet regulatory requirements.
For further information, please contact the GNBS on telephone numbers: 219-0062, 219-0065, and 219-0066 or visit the GNBS website: www.gnbsgy.org
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Rising Debt, Rising US Dollar Rate in Oil-rich Guyana!

Aug 09, 2026
By Rawle Toney Kaieteur Sports – Tianna Springer has ended Guyana’s 14-year wait for a medal at the World U20 Championships, securing a historic bronze in the women’s 400m final in Oregon,...Aug 08, 2026
(Kaieteur News) – Political protests and theatrics go hand in hand in Guyana. A small group gathers, placards are produced, faces are arranged into expressions of grave national concern, and someone discovers that a loud voice is a useful substitute for an argument. The cameras arrive. The...Aug 02, 2026
By Sir Ronald Sanders (Kaieteur News) – Daniel Ortega has now said openly what his regime has demonstrated for years: the people of Nicaragua are not to be permitted to remove their rulers through elections. During celebrations marking the 47th anniversary of the Sandinista Revolution, Ortega...Aug 08, 2026
Hard Truths by GHK Lall (Kaieteur News) – First, the disclosures. This is owed to all Guyanese, none more than the departed in the star-crossed MV Barima. Next in line are the tragedy struck family members; parents, spouses, children, above all. Last in line in this first leadership...Freedom of speech is our core value at Kaieteur News. If the letter/e-mail you sent was not published, and you believe that its contents were not libellous, let us know, please contact us by phone or email.
Feel free to send us your comments and/or criticisms.
Contact: 624-6456; 225-8452; 225-8458; 225-8463; 225-8465; 225-8473 or 225-8491.
Or by Email: glennlall2000@gmail.com / kaieteurnews@yahoo.com