New safety guidelines for the use of ammonia as fuel on gas carriers have been approved at the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 111), marking a significant step towards the commercial deployment of ammonia-fuelled vessels.
The new guidelines provide a clearer framework for managing the specific risks associated with ammonia as a marine fuel, particularly its toxicity and handling requirements.
Developed through collaboration between Lloyd’s Register, the Belgian Federal Public Service Mobility and Transport, and gas shipping operator EXMAR, the guidance establishes a practical approach to addressing the safety challenges linked to ammonia-fuelled vessels.
Liam Blackmore, Global Head of Technology Adoption and Integration, Lloyd’s Register, stated that the approval of these guidelines provides a clear signal that ammonia is moving from concept to a fuel with an emerging international safety framework.
"It demonstrates how close collaboration between industry, flag administrations and technical organisations can accelerate the safe adoption of new fuels at scale. Being part of this collaboration reinforces our role as a trusted advisor helping to turn ambition into practical, scalable solutions for the maritime energy transition."
…said Blackmore.
Drawing on both operational experience and regulatory expertise, the framework outlines how ammonia can be safely handled onboard ships while supporting the development and implementation of early-stage ammonia fuel projects.
Building on the experience of EXMAR and Lloyd’s Register in the construction of mid-size gas carriers, the Directorate-General Shipping of the Belgian Federal Public Service Mobility and Transport took the lead at the IMO in drafting the guidelines.
This approach helps ensure that the regulatory framework reflects real-world operational practices while enabling innovation within a controlled and safety-focused environment.
"Through intensive collaboration and the combination of strong in-house competence and hands-on experience, the partners have succeeded in developing robust and practical safety guidelines."
…added Celine Audenaerdt, Head of Environmental and Technical Affairs, The Royal Belgian Shipowners’ Association (KBRV).
The approval is expected to reduce uncertainty for shipowners and vessel designers evaluating ammonia as a future marine fuel, particularly as the first ammonia-powered ships move closer to entering service.
“As a public authority, we want to facilitate the energy transition by ensuring that an appropriate regulatory framework is in place in good time. Thanks to close cooperation with the industry, this framework is also tailored to the realities on the ground,” further noted Nathalie Deleuze, FPS Mobility’s Maritime Expert in Alternative fuels.
Drawing on more than four decades of operational experience and the challenges encountered along the way, we jointly developed these guidelines through a strong partnership.
…concluded Kristof Coppé, Director Fleet Operations & Technical Business Development at EXMAR.
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