Withdrawal of ammonia control amendments in KR Technical Rules

Korean Register (KR) has published a circular informing all surveyors and relevant parties about the withdrawal of certain amendments to the KR Technical Rules for Classification of Ships using Low-Flashpoint Fuels. The specific amendments withdrawn were related to the "Control of Ammonia Release in Ammonia-Fueled Vessels," which reflected IACS UR H1 (New, Jan 2024). However, this part of the amendment was withdrawn due to the IACS UR H1 being withdrawn in November 2024.

The circular outlines specific rules for ammonia-fueled ships, including the need for systems to avoid direct ammonia release during normal operations and the requirements for gas dispersion analysis in abnormal or emergency scenarios. It also highlights the need for alarms at ammonia release points and monitoring of areas where leaks may occur, with appropriate actions to be taken if ammonia concentrations exceed dangerous levels (300 ppm).

The circular also includes references to related Annexes on methyl/ethyl alcohol, LPG, and ammonia as fuel, which will apply to ships in the future.

IACS has published a press release on UR H1
IACS has published a press release on UR H1 regarding the Control of Ammonia releases in Ammonia fuelled vessels.