EMSA releases ammonia safety report

The study was developed by a consortium led by ABS, with contributions from the National Technical University of Athens and Fundación Valenciaport.

It builds on existing interim guidelines from the International Maritime Organization for ships using ammonia as fuel, offering additional recommendations informed by technical analysis and industry consultation.

“This latest report for EMSA reflects our close collaboration with industry stakeholders and academia to provide critical information to advance the discussions around low- and zero-carbon operations for the future,” said Vassilios Kroustallis, ABS executive vice president and chief commercial officer.

Drawing on stakeholder feedback gathered through a survey and online workshop, the report highlights the importance of fully understanding ammonia’s properties to mitigate operational and safety risks.

It also addresses risk assessment processes and bunkering considerations as ports and shipowners evaluate ammonia’s potential role in future fuel strategies.

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“Exploring pathways toward more environmentally sustainable maritime transport is essential for society, but it must always be pursued with safety as the highest priority,” said Professor Nikolaos P. Ventikos of NTUA.

“By funding rigorous research and making its results publicly available, EMSA enables informed decision-making across the entire maritime community.”

Josep Sanz-Argent of Fundación Valenciaport said ammonia would play a key role in maritime decarbonisation, noting that ports must be prepared to conduct bunkering operations safely. He added that the study’s findings would contribute significantly to that preparation.