Risk Focus: Ammonia Bunkering and Handling

Our latest Risk Focus publication, Ammonia Bunkering and Handling, developed in collaboration with Brookes Bell, provides a technical and operational framework for the safe integration of ammonia into the maritime fuel landscape. This guide examines ammonia's potential as a carbon-free fuel alternative while addressing the unique challenges posed by its toxic and corrosive nature. It explores the physical properties of ammonia alongside critical health hazards and essential first aid measures.

 

The publication details best practices for handling, storage, and transfer, covering key technical aspects including:

• Containment Systems: Analysis of IMO Type C tanks as the most viable and widely used systems for ammonia bunkering.
• Operational Protocols: Procedures for tank conditioning, pressure and temperature control, and the management of hazardous ammonia vapours.
• Safety and PPE: Requirements for specialized Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) based on exposure levels, gas detection systems, and emergency shutdown (ESD) mechanisms.
• Risk Management: Guidance on Hazard Identification (HAZID), HAZOP integration, mooring analysis, and the complexities of Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPS).

 

Additionally, the guide outlines a formal Management of Change (MOC) framework to support the organisational shifts, crew training, and competency development required for ammonia-fuelled vessels. It also addresses environmental considerations, such as the containment of toxic runoff, and community protection measures through dispersion modelling.

 

Download here