The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) on Wednesday (21 August) introduced its latest guidebook on safety in ammonia bunkering operations.
The guidebook, extracted from GCMD’s ammonia bunkering safety study, provides a competency framework aimed to provide maritime stakeholders with a better understanding of the requirements for personnel handling ammonia as a marine fuel.
Key highlights of the framework include:
- Guidance on ammonia properties, custody transfer requirements, and safeguards for both the quantity and quality of ammonia,
- recommendations for bunkering procedures, safety measures, and competency requirements for personnel operating in the ammonia marine fuel ecosystem
GCMD added that the framework is essential for ship managers, academies, competency development centres, vessel operators, port authorities and bunker operators.
“With the International Chamber of Shipping estimating that at least 800,000 seafarers will need upskilling by the mid-2030s, the time to develop curricula and initiate crew training is now,” GCMD said.
“As the industry transitions to using ammonia as a marine fuel, a comprehensive, all-systems change is essential. GCMD is committed to leading this transformation and advancing the decarbonisation of the shipping sector.”
Note: The report, titled ‘Recommendations for a Competency Framework Ensuring Safe Ammonia Bunkering Operations’ can be downloaded here.
Photo credit: Manifold Times
Published: 21 August 2024
