ISO publishes new standard 22120:2026 for methanol bunkering

August 21 ------ The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has published ISO 22120:2026, setting requirements for the safe bunkering of methanol-fueled vessels as the use of methanol as a marine fuel continues to expand.

As informed, ISO 22120:2026, titled Ships and marine technology — Specification for bunkering of methanol fueled vessels, was published in August 2026 as the first edition. The standard establishes requirements for methanol bunkering transfer systems and equipment and is intended to provide a consistent international framework for conducting bunkering operations safely. The standard covers five key areas:

• transfer systems,

• operational procedures,

• risk assessment,

• safety protection,

• and personnel training.

ISO said the standard was developed in response to an industry need for additional safety guidance for alternative marine fuels, identified by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). It is intended to support the IMO International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) and the IMO Interim Guidelines for the Safety of Ships Using Methyl/Ethyl Alcohol as Fuel.

The document provides requirements covering the equipment and systems used to transfer methanol between shore-based or floating facilities and receiving vessels. It also addresses safety measures including emergency release systems, emergency shutdown systems, safety zones and procedures for managing methanol transfer operations.

ISO noted that the growing number of methanol-fueled vessels has been accompanied by an increase in methanol bunkering operations, creating a need for greater international standardization. The new requirements are intended to give vessel operators a basis for selecting fuel providers that meet defined safety standards and to support safer and more consistent bunkering operations.

This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 8, Ships and marine technology, Subcommittee SC 25, Maritime GHG reduction.

Source: safety4sea.com