OTG develops programme on ammonia fuel safety

Ammonia is gaining traction as a potential clean fuel for the future, with the first ammonia-powered vessels expected to debut as early as 2025. In response to this emerging trend, Ocean Technologies Group (OTG) has developed an e-learning program focused on ammonia fuel safety to educate seafarers about handling, storage, and safety precautions specific to ammonia-fueled ships.

As explained, ammonia is already transported as a cargo on specialist tankers and is sometimes used as a refrigerant at sea, but common working practices are not yet established when using it as a fuel, with most crew unaware of its properties and how to handle it safely.

Ahead of the IMO producing interim guidelines in September 2024, OTG has proactively engaged with working groups such as The Nautical Institute and those formed as part of the Just Transition Task Force as they develop competencies for safely handling ammonia as a fuel.

Recognising the immediate need for crew awareness and to support the industry’s safe adoption of ammonia, OTG has created new e-learning that covers the known risks and their mitigations when using ammonia as a fuel. Topics include different onboard storage solutions, how to deal with a fire involving ammonia, and protection against an accidental release of the chemical onboard.

The first ammonia-powered ships are due next year, so it was essential for OTG to develop this e-learning module to ensure seafarers are prepared for the significant differences in handling ammonia as a fuel when compared with existing hydrocarbon-based fuels. This new release builds on our “Introduction to New Fuel Types” title and is the first of a series on specific new fuel handling courses, with hydrogen coming next.