The Association of Oil Marketing Companies (AOMC) recently conducted a surprise inspection of fuel stations and LPG refilling plants in the Ashanti Region. The exercise, dubbed “Mystery Shopping,” aimed to ensure compliance with industry standards for safety, customer service, and overall operations.
Led by AOMC CEO Dr. Riverson Oppong, the inspection team included AOMC Head of Compliance & Operations Tizard Ansah and Compliance Officers Billey Al-Assad and Courage Agblevor. The team meticulously evaluated various aspects of the facilities to ensure they met industry standards.
The inspection went beyond the usual checks on fuel pumps and dispensers. The team assessed staff friendliness, knowledge, and professionalism, as well as the cleanliness of customer service areas and tank farms. Safety was a top priority, with the team observing staff adherence to safety protocols.
The team checked for the use of proper gear and the availability of essential safety equipment like fire extinguishers and spill kits. Compliance with National Petroleum Authority (NPA) guidelines was strictly monitored to ensure that all facilities were operating within legal boundaries.
To gain deeper insights into the industry’s challenges, the AOMC team engaged with station managers to understand operational difficulties and areas needing improvement. This feedback will help the AOMC develop targeted solutions to address these challenges.
The AOMC is committed to using the findings from the inspection to develop training programs, enhance customer service, and improve safety standards across the entire downstream petroleum industry. By prioritizing customer experience, compliance, and operational efficiency, the association aims to benefit consumers through improved service, a safer environment, and consistent quality standards.
According to AOMC CEO Dr. Riverson Oppong, “This mystery shopping program is a significant step towards creating a benchmark for the industry.” He emphasized the importance of prioritizing customer experience, compliance, and operational efficiency to benefit consumers and drive economic growth.
The AOMC believes a well-regulated petroleum industry is vital for economic growth and job creation. By boosting consumer confidence and attracting investments, the association aims to contribute to increased employment opportunities in the sector.
The surprise inspection is part of the AOMC’s efforts to ensure that all fuel stations and LPG refilling plants operate within industry standards. By doing so, the association hopes to create a level playing field for all operators and promote a culture of compliance and excellence.
The AOMC’s “Mystery Shopping” program is a proactive step towards improving the downstream petroleum industry. By identifying areas for improvement and developing targeted solutions, the association is committed to driving growth, improving safety, and enhancing customer experience in the sector.
