Falck Risc studies LNG risk

Based on the finds of the study, which will be ready at the end of this year, proposals will be sent to the European Union to create a unified set of regulations and guidelines about the safe transport and use of LNG for inland shipping.

“This study is a big step towards creating a harmonized and efficient European regulatory framework for LNG as fuel and cargo in inland navigation – one of the main aims of the LNG Masterplan,” said René de Vries, harbour master, Port of Rotterdam.

As co-ordinator for the Rhine Corridor in this European project, Port of Rotterdam Authority is in charge of this research project by Falck Risc. Together with the ports of Antwerp, Mannheim, Strasbourg and Switzerland, the outcome will lead to practical advices and strategic methods how emergency response can be aligned for inland navigation.

“Their pragmatic approach will lead to direct input on how to act in case of a LNG incident in the inland navigation sector. Emergency response organisations in the entire Rhine-Main-Danube area, ranging from Rotterdam to Constanta (Romania), will benefit from this study,” added Mr de Vries.

This study comes as global demand for LNG as fuel and cargo is on the rise and the Port of Rotterdam functions as the largest LNG hub in Europe.

Falck, which is based at the Port of Rotterdam, has also opened what is said to be the first northwest European training facility for LNG on the Rotterdam Maasvlakte. Here, fire crews, employees and members of company emergency response teams in the chemical and petrochemical industries will be able to train in a realistic environment in anticipating and dealing with the risks involved in LNG.

“Fighting an LNG incident is no everyday occurrence. And what you rarely do, you will rarely do well. That is why I am happy with this facility where LNG is available for training any possible incident,” concluded Robert van der Veen, manager, Falck Risc.