A LONG RECORD OF SAFE OPERATION
Transportation of LNG by marine carriers has a long record of safe operation. In LNG’s 45-plus year shipping history, LNG carriers have traveled more than 100 million miles without a major incident. The outstanding LNG shipping safety record is attributable to continuous improvement of technology, safety equipment, comprehensive safety procedures, training, equipment maintenance by responsible ship owners/operators and effective government regulation and oversight.

Over the history of LNG shipping, there have been no collisions, fires, explosions or hull failures resulting in a loss of containment for LNG ships in ports or at sea. Over the 45-plus year life of the industry only eight marine incidents worldwide have resulted in accidental spillage of LNG and none of the spills have been as a result of a failure or breach of a containment system. In the cases of accidental spillage, no fires occurred and only minor structural damage was noted. Seven additional marine-related incidents have occurred with none resulting in release of cargo. No explosions or fatalities from a cargo spill have ever occurred aboard an LNG carrier.

LNG CARRIERS HAVE DOUBLE HULLS
Double-hulled LNG carriers feature primary and secondary cargo containment systems to prevent leaks or ruptures in the unlikely event of a grounding or collision. The primary and secondary cargo containment systems are protected by the outer and inner hulls, and separated from the inner hull by layers of heavy insulation.

LNG carriers have emergency shutdown systems that significantly diminish the risk of an accidental release of LNG. Fire and gas detection system provide warnings to crews and can automatically activate fire fighting systems in case of fire. The gas detection equipment monitoring the areas around the cargo tanks is so sensitive it can detect leakage through a hole the size of a pinhead. Special carrier operating procedures, crew training, and high standards of carrier maintenance further contribute to safety.

LNG carriers are fitted with sophisticated equipment to enhance safe navigation. The navigational safety features include anti-collision radar, automated information systems (AIS) and global positioning systems (GPS) that enable the crew to monitor the ship's position, traffic and other hazards. A global maritime distress system automatically transmits signals if an onboard emergency should occur, requiring external assistance. Additional systems, such as approach velocity meters and automatic mooring line tension monitoring ensure carrier operation safety.

THE U.S. COAST GUARD ASSURES LNG CARRIER SAFETY IN U.S. COASTAL WATERS The U.S. Coast Guard is responsible for assuring the safety of marine operations in U.S. coastal waters. The Coast Guard:

• Inspects LNG ships, including foreign flag vessels, to ensure they comply with safety regulations.
• Works with terminal and ship operators and host port authorities to ensure policies and procedures conform to required standards.
• Works with operators to conduct emergency response drills and joint exercises to test response plans.
• Ensures that operators have adequate safety and environmental protection equipment and procedures to respond to an incident.
• Determines the suitability of a waterway to transport LNG safely.
  
• Creates safety rules for specific ports. For example, in cooperation with port captains, it sets port safety zones and may require tug escorts. In all ports, a safety zone is required for each LNG carrier.

STRICT GOVERNMENT OVERSIGHT AND STANDARDS
Government and industry standards together have helped the industry achieve an outstanding safety record. They provide design requirements and guidance on everything from security, planning, design and construction of ships to safety equipment, construction materials and LNG handling on ships and in ports.