The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Safety Commission, LSSC, and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, LASEPA, has said that operators in the hospitality industry must pre-register for events that would host more than 250 guests. 

The state government made this public during a stakeholders meeting presided over by the Director-General of LSSC, Mr. Lanre Mojola, and the General Manager of LASEPA, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, in Lagos recently to sensitize entrepreneurs in the hospitality sector on the need to bear the environment and safety of the people in mind by getting requisite permits from the state government.

 The Director-General of LSSC explained that pre-registration ensures safe operations during the festive season and prevents avoidable accidents and chaotic situations.

Mojola said, “The meeting is necessary considering the rate of reports of safety and pollution infractions received by the agencies in recent times. We have the approval of Mr. Governor to ensure that any event above 250 persons should be registered with us, while those above 500 people, must not only register but have on the ground our trained safety marshals and representative of other relevant sister agencies to monitor, coordinate and prevent unseen situations. Obtaining approval for a noise permit is sacrosanct to the issuance of our safety certificate.’’

On her part, the General Manager of LASEPA, Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, prompted citizens of the state to adhere to environmental laws and policies guiding the conduct of residents of the state.

Fasawe said, “We can make merry without making noise. We can be good neighbors and respect the rights of others to a peaceful environment, particularly within our communities. In as much as we cannot isolate the metropolitan city from social activities, we need to regulate our activities for a peaceful coexistence and harmonious working relationship. The government understands how important this season is to your sector, and that is why we are taking this step to ensure it is a win-win situation for us all.’’

The GM of LASEPA also said she was pleased with some operators who had practicalized the agency's advice by controlling and managing the sound from their facilities, as she implored others to emulate them. 

The agencies listed the mandatory safety protocols for hitch-free events as; fire safety prevention measures, deployment of certified health professionals, presence of Safety and Environment (HSE) personnel, the practice of professional handling of chemicals and other hazardous materials, and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when on duty. 

They also insisted on the provision of multiple exits, adequate security, installation of informative signage to guide visitors, and the use of licensed food handlers to prevent food poisoning, to mention a few.