Concept risk assessment of a hydrogen driven high speed passenger ferry

Abstract A concept risk assessment of a hydrogen and fuel cell driven high speed passenger ferry has been performed. The study focused on fatality risk related to the hydrogen systems on the vessel, both during operation and while moored in harbour overnight. The main objective with the study was to evaluate whether the risk related to the hydrogen systems is equivalent to that of conventionally fuelled vessels and can be considered acceptable according to the requirements of the IGF-code (International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels). Since hydrogen behaves differently than other flammable gases, some adjustments to existing models and vulnerability criteria have been proposed. The conclusion of the study is that the estimated risk related to hydrogen systems is relatively low, and much lower than the expected acceptable risk tolerance level of 0.5–1.0 fatalities per 109 passenger km. Furthermore, for the overnight mooring in harbour the estimated risks are well within acceptable limits. The work presented is part of a maritime case study performed within MoZEES, a Norwegian research centre for environmentally friendly technology and zero emission transport.