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The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has published its own recommendations on how to safely handle and use liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuels.

Increasing usage of LNG bunkers

The beginning of a recent report released by the USCG details some of the main challenges faced by vessels currently using or intending to use LNG bunkers. LNG is becoming a popular alternative option for vessels as environmental restrictions become stricter about sulphur and other emissions allowed to come from the fuel.

Below are some of the challenges mentioned:

- Differing regulatory codes in different waters, many of which are contradictory about LNG as a bunker rather than cargo

- Technical requirements for LNG bunker ships

- Proper bunkering processes (filling, vapour management, safe procedures, communication, and emergency shut-down)

- Training crew members and dock workers about safe LNG management

- Developing emergency procedure

Dangers associated with LNG bunkering

LNG is used as a low-emission shipping fuel; however, it does have risks associated with its usage. Some of the dangers that the USCG mentions are the cryogenic effects caused by the low temperatures necessary to keep the fuel, the high expansion rate of the fuel, and the low flashpoint temperature.

With proper training of all crew members and by implementing effective safety measures, the USCG says all of these risks can be practically eliminated. One suggestion given by the USCG is that LNG bunkering activities should not coincide with cargo loading or offloading activities.

Recommendations for safer usage

Along with the safety report, the USCG has released two checklists of recommended activities to be done when handling LNG bunkers.

1. LNG bunkering job aid (a href="http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cg5/lgcncoe/docs/LNG%20Bunkering%20Job%20Aid.pdf)

This checklist details what should be done by those in the vessel and those in the refilling facility, be it a vehicle or a container. Each crew member should follow the checklist given to handle the LNG as safely as possible.

2. LNG fuel system inspection job aid ( https://www.uscg.mil/lgcncoe/docs/LNG%20Fuel%20Job%20Aid.pdf)

The checklist included in this job aid details what an inspector should be looking for when inspecting LNG fuel system. The checklist is designed to assist ship owners in making their LNG ships safer.