Seafarer training in need of comprehensive overhaul to ensure safe decarbonisation of shipping
The maritime industry is moving toward using green fuels like ammonia, methanol, and hydrogen to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These alternative fuels can help the industry cut pollution, but they also bring new risks. To keep seafarers safe, a report led by the Maritime Just Transition Task Force (MJTTF) has called for updated training. This report was prepared with help from Lloyd’s Register (LR) Maritime Decarbonisation Hub, the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) Ocean Stewardship Coalition, and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
Why New Training is Needed
Seafarers today are trained to handle traditional fuel oil, but green fuels have different properties and risks. For example:
- Ammonia is toxic and requires special emergency response training.
- Methanol is highly flammable and needs advanced fire detection and safety measures.
- Hydrogen has unique fire risks that need specific safety procedures.
These new fuels demand more knowledge and skills to keep crews safe. However, current seafarer training standards don’t cover the use of these green fuels, which is why an overhaul in training is needed.
Gathering Industry Insights
The MJTTF held 12 workshops this year, where over 100 industry experts discussed the changes needed. These workshops helped identify the top safety risks of using green fuels and outlined the skills seafarers will need in the future. Key areas for training include:
- Emergency Response: Ammonia exposure requires immediate action and new personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Fire Safety: Methanol’s high flammability means that seafarers need better fire detection systems and updated fire safety training.
- Gas Detection: Hydrogen’s specific risks mean that flame detection and gas monitoring need to be improved.
This project has set the stage for developing new training standards to ensure that maritime workers can safely use ammonia, methanol, and hydrogen on board ships.
‘Investments, partnerships needed’ to reduce carbon in shipping
Next Steps for Training
The MJTTF will use these findings to create a training framework for maritime training centers. The World Maritime University (WMU) plans to launch an Instructor Handbook for seafarer training in May 2025. This will help schools teach the skills that seafarers will need for these new fuels, supporting a safe shift to a cleaner future.
Support from Industry Leaders
Industry experts and organizations like IMO, LR Foundation, and UNGC are committed to helping seafarers through this transition. IMO Deputy Director Ismael Cobos Delgado emphasized that proper training for alternative fuels is essential for meeting climate goals, while Natassa Kouvertari of Lloyd’s Register explained that building new skills is critical for safety on ships using green fuels.
The IMO and Lloyd’s Register Foundation are funding this project to make the maritime sector safer and cleaner. By upskilling workers, they aim to protect seafarers and make sure the transition to green fuels benefits everyone.
What This Means for Seafarers
The shift to green fuels is transforming the maritime industry, and seafarers are at the heart of this change. As the industry moves to safer and cleaner energy sources, investing in seafarer training will protect workers and ensure smooth operations on board.
This report marks the first step in a long-term commitment to creating a cleaner, safer future for maritime workers. As green fuels become standard, the industry must keep up with the training needed to keep its workers safe and confident.
