PRS: Requirements for Ships Using LNG, CNG, LPG as Fuels

The Polish Register of Shipping (PRS) has published the Safety Requirements for Ships Using Low Flashpoint Gases (LNG, CNG, LPG) as Fuel.

This document was published on 19 June 2023 and became effective on 1 July 2023.

Introduction

The Publication outlines technical requirements for ships utilizing low flash point gases (LNG, CNG, LPG) as fuel, excluding gas carriers.

Its primary objective is to specify the necessary arrangements, installations, control, and monitoring of engines and equipment running on low-flashpoint gas.

These measures aim to reduce risks to the ship, crew, and environment while considering the properties of the gaseous fuels used.

The Publication is based on the IGF Code, as amended, and the document CCC 8/WP.3 DRAFT MSC CIRCULAR, INTERIM GUIDELINES FOR THE SAFETY OF SHIPS USING LPG FUELS.

The layout corresponds to the IGF Code to facilitate verification of individual requirements and easy implementation of future amendments/interpretations.

Specific requirements, other than those from the source document, are indicated in brown font.

It also incorporates interpretations/recommendations from IACS and IMO to the IGF Code.

The Publication primarily focuses on the requirements for using LNG and CNG, while specific requirements for LPG are marked in blue font.

When technical arrangements are left to the Flag State Administration's decision/recognition, PRS, acting as a recognized organization on behalf of the Flag State, will make appropriate decisions in line with the Agreement with the Administration.

If the Flag State Administration of a new construction is undecided, PRS will make appropriate decisions autonomously.

The Publication is applicable to ships falling under SOLAS Convention, Part G, Chapter II-1, pertaining to ships using low-flashpoint fuels.

Ships complying with this Publication's requirements will be assigned an additional mark in the class symbol: IGF DF.

Ships not subject to SOLAS Convention may receive exemptions from specific requirements, subject to acceptance of the deviation by the Administration or an authorized institution.

Goal

The main goal of this Publication is to ensure the safe and environmentally friendly design, construction, and operation of ships, particularly their propulsion machinery, auxiliary power generation machinery, and other purpose machinery, using gas or low-flashpoint fuel as a source of energy.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):