Regulatory gap analysis for risk-based design of liquefied hydrogen maritime transport vessels

The increasing use of hydrogen for decarbonization and net-zero objectives has positioned the maritime transport of liquefied hydrogen (LH 2 ) as a critical element of the global energy transition. However, safety concepts for LH 2 storage, handling, and transportation remain underdeveloped, while technological advancements are still in their infancy. This study examines the fundamental properties of hydrogen and identifies three principal risks: its wide explosion and flammability limits, permeation, and leakage. A comprehensive review of international regulations and classification society guidelines on low-flashpoint fuels reveals that no current framework provides detailed safety requirements for LH 2 carriage. To address thesse limitations, this paper emphasizes the need for advanced leakage detection technologies, permeation-resistant materials, and risk assessment methodologies that support the development of robust safety guidelines. The findings contribute to establishing a foundation for the safe design, operation, and regulation of LH 2 transport vessels. • Identifies critical safe regulatory gaps in hydrogen carrier design. • Highlights underdeveloped safety concepts for maritime hydrogen transport. • Proposes a framework to enhance risk management practices. • Contributes to global decarbonization through safer hydrogen transport. • Provides insights for future maritime hydrogen regulations.