Bomba advises closure of Kaul Oya site after methane gas detected

MUKAH (Feb 1): The Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) has advised that the affected area at the Kaul Oya site in Kampung Kuala Hilir, Oya sub-district here, be closed to the public following the detection of highly flammable methane gas during a gas monitoring operation on Sunday.

The recommendation was made after the Hazardous Material Unit (Hazmat) personnel recorded dangerously high Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) readings at the site.

According to Bomba, gas readings taken at 9.30am using a four-gas meter showed normal levels when the borehole was sealed.

“Oxygen was recorded at 20.09 per cent, while readings for hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), carbon dioxide (CO₂) and LEL were at zero.

“However, once the borehole cover was opened, LEL readings surged to between 95 and 100 per cent, indicating a high-risk situation.

“Oxygen levels were recorded at 20.7 per cent, while H₂S and CO₂ remained at zero,” Bomba said.

Further monitoring within a 10-metre radius around the site showed LEL readings at zero, indicating that the methane gas concentration was localised to the borehole area.

Bomba confirmed the presence of flammable methane gas, noting that LEL readings remained within normal levels when the borehole was closed but increased significantly when it was exposed.

“In light of the findings, the Hazmat team recommended that the affected area be closed. Any location with boreholes or drill openings must be fully sealed or backfilled if the area is to be reopened to the public.”

Local authorities were also advised to ensure that no activities are carried out in the area until all boreholes have been completely filled to prevent potential safety risks.