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A LONG RECORD OF SAFE OPERATION
Transportation of LNG via ship has a long record of safe operation. In LNG's 50-plus year shipping history, LNG ships have traveled more than 151 million miles without a major incident. The outstanding LNG shipping safety record is attributable to continuous improvement of technology, safety equipment, comprehensive safety procedures, training, equipment maintenance by responsible ship owners/operators, and effective government regulation and oversight.
Over the history of LNG shipping, there have been no collisions, fires, explosions or hull failures resulting in a loss of containment for LNG ships in ports or at sea. According to a Sandia National Laboratories 2008 report, over the life of the LNG shipping industry only eight incidents occurred worldwide. None of the accidents led to a loss of life or breach of the vessels' cargo containment systems.
LNG SHIPS HAVE DOUBLE HULLS
Double-hulled LNG ships feature primary and secondary cargo containment systems to prevent leaks or ruptures in the unlikely event of a grounding or collision. The primary and secondary cargo containment systems are protected by the outer and inner hulls, and separated from the inner hull by more than six feet of void space or water ballast.
LNG ships have emergency shutdown systems that significantly diminish the risk of an accidental release of LNG. Fire and gas detection systems provide warnings to crews and can automatically activate fire fighting systems in case of fire. The gas detection equipment monitoring the areas around the cargo tanks is so sensitive it can detect leakage through a hole the size of a pinhead. Special ship operating procedures, crew training, and high standards of ship maintenance further contribute to safety.
LNG ships are fitted with sophisticated equipment to enhance safe navigation. The navigational safety features include anti-collision radar, automated information systems (AIS) and global positioning systems (GPS) that enable the crew to monitor the ship's position, traffic and other hazards. A global maritime distress system automatically transmits signals if an onboard emergency should occur, requiring external assistance. Additional systems, such as approach velocity meters and automatic mooring line tension monitoring ensure carrier operation safety.
THE U.S. COAST GUARD ASSURES LNG SHIP SAFETY IN U.S. COASTAL WATERS
The U.S. Coast Guard is responsible for assuring the safety of marine operations in U.S. coastal waters. The Coast Guard:
- Conducts rigorous annual inspections of LNG ships, including foreign flag vessels, to ensure they comply with safety regulations.
- Works with terminal and ship operators and host port authorities to ensure policies and procedures conform to required standards.
- Has the authority to require and receive background checks of crews, conduct ship searches, and require the use of Sea Marshalls if deemed necessary.
- Works with operators to conduct emergency response drills and joint exercises to test response plans.
- Ensures that operators have adequate safety and environmental protection equipment and procedures to respond to an incident.
- Determines the suitability of a waterway to transport LNG safely.
- Creates safety rules for specific ports. For example, in cooperation with port captains, it sets port safety zones and may require tug escorts. In all ports, a safety zone is required for each LNG carrier.
STRICT GOVERNMENT OVERSIGHT AND STANDARDS
Government and industry standards together have helped the industry achieve an outstanding safety record. They provide design requirements and guidance on everything from security, planning, design and construction of ships to safety equipment, construction materials and LNG handling on ships and in ports. The LNG Industry carefully follows the requirements set forth by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Department of Transportation (DOT), the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to ensure that its operations are safe and secure.
The gas detection equipment is so sensitive it can detect leakage through a hole the size of a pinhead.
Standards are developed using the latest knowledge and experience and are under constant review. Sources of the standards include the U.S. Coast Guard, the International Maritime Organization, the American Petroleum Institute, the Society of International Gas Tankers and Terminal Operators, Ltd., the Oil Companies International Marine Forum, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the International Standards Organization, the National Fire Protection Association, the Classification Society Rules and the Permanent International Association of Navigation Congresses.