Tokyo - ClassNK has released the “Part A Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels (Edition 3.0.1)”. This edition includes supplementary explanations about interpretations of safety requirements for methyl/ethyl alcohol-fueled ships, as well as compiled key points on required plans and documents, and class survey items specifically for such vessels.
The “Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels” comprehensively describe safety requirements for alternative-fueled ships. It stipulates requirements for installation, controls, safety devices, etc., aiming to minimize the risks to ships, seafarers, and the environment posed by the use of alternative fuels
Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels
The “Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels” comprehensively describe safety requirements for alternative-fueled ships. It stipulates requirements for installation, controls, safety devices, etc., aiming to minimize the risks to ships, seafarers, and the environment posed by the use of alternative fuels.
Related :ClassNK Issues World-First Guidelines For Onboard CO

The Guidelines consist of four parts
The Guidelines consist of four parts: Part A (Methyl / Ethyl Alcohol), Part B (LPG), Part C (Ammonia), and Part D (Hydrogen). In response to the increasing number of methyl alcohol-fueled ships being built both domestically and internationally, ClassNK has issued this revised edition to clarify frequently inquired requirements in Part A and to further support stakeholders involved in such projects.
Part A (Edition 3.0.1)
Part A (Edition 3.0.1) added supplementary explanations for key design topics that have attracted particular attention in shipbuilding, through utilizing the knowledge and experience gained from design review activities and further clarifying the interpretation of safety requirements for methyl/ethyl alcohol-fueled ships.
The recent trends in methyl/ethyl alcohol-fueled ships,
In addition, as part of the recent trends in methyl/ethyl alcohol-fueled ships, discussions on the revision of the IMO Interim Guidelines*1, which form the basis of Part A, are scheduled to take place at the 12th session of the IMO Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC 12) in September 2026.
Issuing safety requirements and design guidance.
ClassNK stated that it will monitor these discussions and update Part A accordingly. The revision is part of the “ClassNK Transition Support Services,” through which the organization aims to facilitate the introduction of alternative-fueled ships by issuing safety requirements and design guidance.
About : ClassNK
ClassNK (Nippon Kaiji Kyokai) is a non-profit classification society established in Japan. It provides ship classification and certification services, develops technical standards for ship safety and environmental performance, and conducts surveys and research related to maritime engineering and sustainability.
The guidelines are available to download via "Guidelines" of My Page on ClassNK’s website after registration.
https://www.classnk.or.jp/account/en/Rules_Guidance/ssl/guidelines.aspx
ClassNK, Part A (Edition 3.0.1) updated Part A Guidelines,methyl/ethyl alcohol,fueled ships,Alternative Fuels,(CCC 12) ,IMO,Transition Support Services
27 December 2025
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