Open type ferry safety systems design for using LNG fuel

This feasibility study investigates the viability of employing Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) fuel to an open type Ro-Ro passenger ferry and the potential challenges imposed with regard to the vessel safety systems. The study proposes appropriate methodology for converting the existing ship to run on LNG fuel and discusses all the necessary modifications to the ship’s safety systems; furthermore, the ship’s evacuation analysis is investigated accordingly. The basic requirements that the ship already complies with are initially reported for each safety system while the additional restrictions that need to be taken into consideration for employing LNG fuel are analysed; appropriate actions are proposed. Furthermore, a Hazard Identification Study (HAZID) is also carried out. Overall, the technical feasibility of the investigated scenario is clearly demonstrated; minimal modifications to the ship's safety systems in order to comply with the imposed safety rules are required for the specific type of ship.