During the 2024 SAFETY4SEA Singapore Forum, Capt. Chatur Wahyu, Director of the Singapore Maritime Academy (SMA), laid bare the Academy’s unwavering commitment to training international seafarers and maritime personnel in the safe handling of alternative marine fuels. With the maritime industry pivoting towards greener alternatives like methanol, ammonia, and even hydrogen, the goal is clear: achieving net-zero or near-zero carbon emissions by 2050. However, this transition is not without its perils. While these fuels are touted as environmentally friendly, they also come with significant risks to both human and marine life, raising pressing questions about safety protocols and emergency preparedness.
The stark reality is that the handling of methanol and ammonia can be hazardous. Capt. Wahyu pointed out that in the last two decades, there have been three tragic cases of methanol explosions, each claiming lives. Furthermore, a catastrophic explosion involving ammonia in Senegal 30 years ago resulted in over 100 fatalities and more than a thousand injuries. These incidents underscore the urgent need for robust training programs that equip crew members and maritime professionals with the skills to manage these risks effectively.
In response to the growing reliance on alternative fuels, Singapore conducted its first ship-to-ship methanol bunkering operation in July 2023. This milestone prompted the SMA to collaborate with the Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) to design specialized training courses for safe methanol handling. With no existing references for such training, the SMA leaned heavily on the IMO interim guidelines to craft a comprehensive syllabus, which includes both basic and advanced courses tailored to different roles within the maritime sector.
The basic course focuses on the fundamental chemical and physical properties of methanol, emergency response protocols, and essential safety gear. In contrast, the advanced course delves deeper into the intricacies of fuel systems, storage arrangements, and the unique challenges posed by methanol fires—particularly their invisibility during daylight, which complicates detection and extinguishment. To tackle this, the SMA has incorporated training on using infrared cameras and gas detectors, going beyond the standard IMO guidelines.
Moreover, the SMA has embraced cutting-edge technology, partnering with the Center of Excellence in Maritime Safety to develop an immersive VR training package. This innovation allows trainees, including firefighters from the Singapore Civil Defence Force, to simulate bunkering operations, gaining firsthand experience in managing the inherent risks.
As the industry gears up for the first ammonia-powered vessel set to launch in early 2026, the SMA is already preparing training initiatives for upcoming bunkering operations. The recent establishment of the Maritime Energy Training Facility (MEF) further cements Singapore’s commitment to this transition, creating a decentralized network of training providers focused on ammonia and methanol.
With 23 industry stakeholders already on board, this initiative is gaining traction. The IMO Secretary-General, Arsenio Dominguez, has also shown interest in the SMA’s facilities, which are equipped for firefighting exercises and engineering simulations. This proactive approach not only enhances safety protocols but also positions Singapore as a leading global maritime hub and a key player in the bunkering market.
Last year, Singapore set a remarkable record by reaching 51.8 million tons in bunkering sales. As the maritime landscape continues to evolve, the SMA is determined to maintain this momentum, ensuring that Singapore remains at the forefront of maritime innovation and safety. The commitment to training and preparedness will be crucial as the industry navigates the uncharted waters of alternative fuels, balancing environmental responsibility with the paramount need for safety.
