ClassNK has released the ‘Part A Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels (Edition 3.0.1)’, which now includes supplementary explanations about interpretations of safety requirements for methyl/ethyl alcohol-fuelled ships, as well as compiling key points on required plans and documents, and class survey items specifically for such vessels.
The Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels document describes safety requirements for alternative-fuelled ships. It stipulates requirements for installation, controls, safety devices, etc, aiming to minimise the risks to ships, seafarers, and the environment posed by the use of alternative fuels. The Guidelines consist of four parts: Part A (Methyl/Ethyl Alcohol), Part B (LPG), Part C (Ammonia), and Part D (Hydrogen). In response to the increasing number of methyl alcohol-fuelled ships being built both domestically and internationally, ClassNK has issued this revised edition to clarify frequently inquired requirements in Part A and to further support stakeholders involved in such projects.
Part A (Edition 3.0.1) added supplementary explanations for key design topics that have attracted particular attention in shipbuilding, through utilising the knowledge and experience gained from design review activities and further clarifying the interpretation of safety requirements for methyl/ethyl alcohol-fuelled ships. In addition, as part of the recent trends in methyl/ethyl alcohol-fuelled ships, discussions on the revision of the IMO Interim Guidelines (MSC.1/Circ.1621), which form the basis of Part A, are scheduled to take place at the 12th session of the IMO Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC 12) in September 2026.
ClassNK will closely monitor these discussions and reflect the outcomes in Part A as necessary.
The guidelines are available to download for registered users of ClassNKâs website.
