ClassNK updates gas fueling guidelines

DECEMBER 13, 2013 — Classification society Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) has released the second version of its Guidelines for Gas Fueled Ships. This updated version reflects the  the outcome of discussions held at IMO regarding the International Code of Safety for ships using gases or other low flash-point fuels (IGF Code).

With more and more shipowners unveiling plans to adopt LNG fueling, discussions on the IGF Code at IMO have been accelerated in order to extend safety regulations to this rapidly growing sector of the industry.

The code will govern safety aspects of the application of natural gas for propulsion and auxiliary purposes. A draft has been in place and regularly updated since 2009, and the code is set to be finalized by 2014.

ClassNK published its Guidelines for Gas Fueled Ships to provide comprehensive information on key design features including bunkering, hull structure, fire safety, and explosion prevention measures in line with the results of the IMO discussions on the IGF Code.

The guidelines are available free of charge via the ClassNK website for those who have registered for the ClassNK “My Page” service. To register for the “My Page” service free of charge, go to ClassNK’s website and click on the “My Page Login” button.