- Methanol is gaining traction as a marine fuel but requires strict safety measures due to its hazardous properties.
- The new MTF guidelines provide 41 safety recommendations covering pre-, during-, and post-inspection phases.
- These guidelines aim to safeguard inspectors while supporting wider adoption of methanol in the maritime energy transition.
With stricter IMO emission regulations, methanol has become an attractive alternative fuel. Orders for methanol-powered vessels are rising, but the fuel’s characteristics—flammability, toxicity, and corrosivity—present unique risks. Safe inspection practices are therefore essential for building confidence and supporting the industry’s transition.
Key Focus of the Guidelines
The report provides detailed recommendations across all stages of inspection:
- Pre-Inspection: Training and competency requirements, ship familiarization, emergency preparedness, and use of appropriate PPE.
- During Inspection: Dynamic risk assessments, CMES system testing, hazardous area management, fuel system checks, and incident readiness.
- Post-Inspection: Decontamination procedures, health monitoring to detect delayed symptoms, and maintenance or disposal of protective equipment.
Altogether, 41 safety measures have been outlined, offering a structured framework to strengthen existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) or establish new ones.
Enhancing Safety and Confidence
The guidelines are intended to complement, not replace, existing inspection rules, with a specific focus on methanol-related hazards. They provide a foundation to safeguard inspectors’ health and safety while ensuring thorough inspection processes. By doing so, they also help the industry accelerate methanol adoption as a safe and reliable marine fuel.
Industry Collaboration and Commitment
The initiative reflects collaborative work among regulatory authorities and industry stakeholders under the Maritime Technologies Forum. Leaders emphasized that these guidelines are not only applicable to inspectors but also relevant for other professionals boarding methanol-fueled vessels, such as during cargo handling, repairs, or pilotage.This effort underscores the sector’s commitment to supporting the safe, sustainable, and widespread use of methanol, contributing to the broader goal of maritime decarbonization.
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Source: Ocean News & Technology
