The shipping industry has embarked on a transformative journey, actively working towards a sustainable future and a safer environment. With a strong commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the industry is actively seeking the uptake and safe use of new low-GHG technologies and alternatives while simultaneously focusing on improving safety measures onboard ships.
Engine room procedures guide
The Engine Room Procedures Guide, Second Edition introduces critical procedures for safely managing alternative fuels such as LNG, highlighting the most common engine room deficiencies found during various inspections and offers comprehensive guidance for operating the engine room in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.
LNG usage and bunkering
The Engine Room Procedures Guide, Second Edition emphasises the importance of following comprehensive safety procedures during the bunkering of conventional fuel oil and LNG, providing step-by-step instructions to ensure a secure bunkering operation for every ship.
Utilising LNG as a marine fuel offers substantial environmental benefits throughout the operational lifespan of vessels. These benefits encompass an improved Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) rating and Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), a significant decrease in nitrous oxide (NOx) emissions, almost zero emissions of sulphur oxides (SOx), and particulate matter emissions (PM), including black carbon, and a reduction in overall GHG emissions.
LNG bunkering is not only at risk of explosive vapour release but also necessitates storage and handling at extremely low temperatures due to its cryogenic nature. The International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-Flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) has mandatory provisions for the arrangement, installation, control, and monitoring of machinery, equipment, and systems using low-flashpoint fuels, including LNG.
Enclosed space entry procedures
An enclosed space lacks proper ventilation, is not meant for continuous occupancy, has limited access, and may have a hazardous atmosphere. Understanding the precautions for entry into enclosed spaces is extremely important for everyone on board. It is concerning how frequently serious accidents occur on ships due to enclosed space entry, often leading to the death of seafarers. Following simple procedures and precautions can help to prevent most of these deaths.
To ensure crew safety, it is necessary to properly assess risks and establish robust entry protocols. Severe consequences can result from accidents involving enclosed space entry, such as asphyxiation, poisoning, or falls. By following procedures, the risk of accidents is minimised, as all required safety measures are implemented before entering.
The guide provides details on the responsibilities of the chief engineer and engineering team, the areas inspected in the engine room, and the common deficiencies uncovered in ship inspections.
New ways to decarbonise
The shipping industry is exploring a range of new technologies and fuel alternatives to navigate towards a more sustainable future on the way to a net-zero journey. Replacing the conventional fuels used in ships with sustainable alternative fuels is an inevitable part of this journey.
LNG as marine fuel is an interim solution to reduce GHG emissions because of concerns about methane slip and fugitive emissions. The future utilisation of synthetic methane (or e-methane) is projected to assist LNG-powered ships in reaching the IMO’s GHG reduction targets.
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Source: Ajot
