Browsing by Author "Qonono, Kwanele"

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    Analysis of the fire hazard posed by petrol stations in Stellenbosch and the extent to which planning acknowledges risk
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2019-04) Qonono, Kwanele; Pharoah, Robyn; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Geography & Environmental Studies.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The study aimed to investigate the extent to which land-use planning in Stellenbosch, South Africa, considers the fire-risk posed by petrol stations, and the implications for public safety, as well as preparedness for large fires or explosions. In order to achieve this, the study first identified the land-use types around petrol stations in Stellenbosch, and determined the extent to which their locations comply with the international and national planning regulations. Petrol stations within a six-kilometre radius from Stellenbosch’s centre were used as study sites. Second, the study examined the risk of fires/explosions at petrol stations. Third, the study investigated Stellenbosch Municipality’s institutional preparedness to respond in an event of a fire/explosion at a petrol station. These results suggest that the siting of petrol stations does not comply with the international and national good practices, thus exposing the surrounding developments to fires and explosions. The results also suggests that land-use planning does not consider hazards created by petrol stations. In addition, while observation at petrol stations suggest the potential for major fires, Stellenbosch Municipality’s preparedness to respond to petrol station fires appears low, due to the prioritisation of more frequent events.