Sasol has explained details of a simulation exercise in Mbombela, Mpumalanga.
The aim of it was to test the effectiveness of an outbound logistics emergency response plan during fuel and gas transportation.
Sasol said the drill conducted on the 5 November 2024, was successful.
Christian Herrmann, Executive Vice President: Marketing & Sales Energy & Chemicals Southern Africa, said “every year, we facilitate simulations on routes used for fuel and gas transport, with last year’s exercise held in Polokwane. These drills are vital for assessing emergency response plans, aligning with stakeholders, and raising public awareness on how to respond safely to incidents involving fuel or gas tankers.”
The scenario on the N4 East near the R104 off-ramp in Mbombela, involved a simulated collision between one of Sasol’s fuel tankers and a gas delivery vehicle, caused by low visibility due to smoke from a firebreak burn that went out of control. The exercise evaluated the response capabilities of emergency teams, local authorities, and other first responders.
It is a collaborative effort, involving SAPS, Mpumalanga Traffic Department, TRACN4, Emergency Medical Services, Disaster Management, Department of Health, Fire & Rescue and others.
Herrmann also said it assessed the response times for flammable liquid spills and pointed to an improvement in communication and teamwork between fire services, traffic control, medical teams, and stakeholders.
The exercise also tested protocols for extracting and treating injured personnel in hazardous conditions and implementing measures to protect the environment and communities from contamination and fire risks.
“This simulation showcased our dedication to public safety and demonstrated our core values of ‘Be Safe’ and being a ‘Caring Citizen’” he said.