Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) has announced that it will grant NYK’s ammonia-fueled medium gas carrier (AFMGC) the world’s first “Ammonia Engine Room Safety” (MRS) accreditation.
This AFMGC is reportedly being built by a partnership led by NYK and Nihon Shipyard Co., Ltd. (NSY).
MRS is a class identifier that indicates whether a ship is equipped with excellent ammonia safety procedures in the engine room.
In addition, MRS verifies that the vessel meets the highest safety standards set out in the requirements for ammonia-powered vessels.
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The partnership plans to deliver the AFMGC by the end of November 2026.
The Japanese New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) is funding the development of the ship through its Green Innovation Fund Project.
To address toxicity, the consortium conducted a risk assessment conducted by ClassNK, risk assessments led by NYK experts and user-focused safety measures, as well as a study of vessel specifications to achieve the highest levels of safety in the world.
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ClassNK’s regulations for ammonia-fuelled ships set out the minimum design criteria for the safe use of ammonia on board.
To obtain an MRS label, companies must meet optional functional criteria to reduce personal exposure to ammonia leaks in the engine room.
ClassNK pointed out that this designation is only awarded to vessels that meet the functional requirements and ensure the highest level of safety.
In March, the accreditation company awarded Ever Top, a Neopanamax container ship owned by Evergreen, a “SCCS-Full” 1 class certificate.
