DNV completed safety framework study for hydrogen-fuelled vessels

DNV has completed a multi-year study commissioned by the European Maritime Safety Agency examining the safety implications of hydrogen as a marine fuel, delivering a final report and an accompanying non-mandatory guidance document.

The study concludes that hydrogen-fuelled ships require a design-based approach to safety, with secondary enclosures recommended across all hydrogen-carrying components, including those located on open deck.

While hydrogen is gaining consideration as a potential marine fuel, the study identifies safety characteristics that distinguish it from other alternative fuels such as LNG.

Even minor leaks can rapidly form ignitable gas clouds, and hydrogen’s low ignition energy combined with the challenges inherent in leak detection create a heightened explosion risk.

These properties necessitate additional onboard technical barriers, particularly in relation to leakage management and protection systems, that go beyond what is required for other fuel types.

The liquefied form of hydrogen introduces further occupational hazards for seafarers due to its high flammability and extremely low storage temperatures.

The study calls for dedicated crew training to address hydrogen-specific hazards and their mitigation, supported by clear operational procedures, robust safety management systems and a strong organisational safety culture as complementary layers of risk control.

Linda Hammer, Principal Consultant at DNV and lead author of the study, emphasised that safety for hydrogen-fuelled ships must be grounded in technical barriers, with containment integrity, secondary enclosures and automated protection systems forming the primary line of defence.

She noted that the speed at which hydrogen incidents can escalate, combined with the limitations of detection and response in complex maritime environments, makes early-stage design integration essential.

Cristina Saenz de Santa Maria, Interim CEO Maritime at DNV, reinforced the need for new thinking and close cross-industry collaboration as hydrogen technology develops, with seafarer safety positioned as the central consideration throughout.

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