80_FR_10168 80 FR 10131 - Policy Letters: Guidance for the Use of Liquefied Natural Gas as a Marine Fuel

80 FR 10131 - Policy Letters: Guidance for the Use of Liquefied Natural Gas as a Marine Fuel

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Coast Guard

Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 37 (February 25, 2015)

Page Range10131-10137
FR Document2015-03852

On February 7, 2014, the Coast Guard announced the availability, in the docket, of two draft policy letters for which it sought public comment. This notice announces the availability of the finalized Coast Guard policy letters, including explanations of changes made to the policy letters and enclosures based on the public comments received. The first policy letter provides voluntary guidance for liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel transfer operations on vessels using natural gas as fuel in U.S. waters, and training of personnel on those vessels. It recommends transfer and personnel training measures that we believe will achieve a level of safety that is at least equivalent to that provided for traditional fueled vessels. It applies to vessels equipped to receive LNG for use as fuel, but not to vessels regulated as LNG carriers that utilize boil-off gas as fuel. The second policy letter discusses voluntary guidance and existing regulations applicable to vessels and waterfront facilities conducting LNG marine fuel transfer (bunkering) operations. The second policy letter provides voluntary guidance on safety, security, and risk assessment measures we believe will enhance safe LNG bunkering operations. Both policy letters are available on the public docket. They have been updated to reflect publication numbers of the current year. Accordingly, as discussed in this notice, Policy Letter 01-14 became Policy Letter 01-15 and Policy Letter 02-14 became Policy Letter 02-15.

Federal Register, Volume 80 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2015)
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2015)]
[Notices]
[Pages 10131-10137]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2015-03852]


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DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Coast Guard

[Docket No. USCG-2013-1084]


Policy Letters: Guidance for the Use of Liquefied Natural Gas as 
a Marine Fuel

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.

ACTION: Notice of availability.

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SUMMARY: On February 7, 2014, the Coast Guard announced the 
availability, in the docket, of two draft policy letters for which it 
sought public comment. This notice announces the availability of the 
finalized Coast Guard policy letters, including explanations of changes 
made to the policy letters and enclosures based on the public comments 
received. The first policy letter provides voluntary guidance for 
liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel transfer operations on vessels using 
natural gas as fuel in U.S. waters, and training of personnel on those 
vessels. It recommends transfer and personnel training measures that we 
believe will achieve a level of safety that is at least equivalent to 
that provided for traditional fueled vessels. It applies to vessels 
equipped to receive LNG for use as fuel, but not to vessels regulated 
as LNG carriers that utilize boil-off gas as fuel. The second policy 
letter discusses voluntary guidance and existing regulations applicable 
to vessels and waterfront facilities conducting LNG marine fuel 
transfer (bunkering) operations. The second policy letter provides 
voluntary guidance on safety, security, and risk assessment measures we 
believe will enhance safe LNG bunkering operations. Both policy letters 
are available on the public docket. They have been updated to reflect 
publication numbers of the current year. Accordingly, as discussed in 
this notice, Policy Letter 01-14 became Policy Letter 01-15 and Policy 
Letter 02-14 became Policy Letter 02-15.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this notice, 
call or email Ken Smith, Vessel and Facility Operating Standards 
Division (CG-OES-2), U.S. Coast Guard; telephone 202-372-1413, email 
[email protected]. If you have questions on viewing or submitting 
material to the docket, call Cheryl Collins, Program Manager, Docket 
Operations, telephone 202-366-9826.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 
    Viewing material in the docket: To view the policy letters and 
related material, go to http://www.regulations.gov, type the docket 
number (USCG-2013-1084) in the ``SEARCH'' box and click ``SEARCH.'' 
Click on ``Open Docket Folder'' on the line associated with this 
notice. If you do not have access to the Internet, you may view the 
docket online by visiting the Docket Management facility in Room W12-
140 on the ground floor of the Department of Transportation West 
Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. We 
have an agreement with the Department of Transportation to use the 
Docket Management Facility.
    Privacy Act: Anyone can search the electronic form of comments 
received into any of our dockets by the name of the individual 
submitting the comment (or signing the comment, if submitted on behalf 
of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review a 
Privacy Act, system of records notice regarding our public dockets in 
the January 17, 2008, issue of the Federal Register (73 FR 3316).

Background and Purpose

    The shipping industry is exploring conversion from oil-based fuel 
to cleaner burning natural gas, because the use of natural gas as fuel 
would substantially reduce carbon emissions, sulfur emissions, and 
nitrogen oxide emissions. This natural gas fuel would be stored on and 
transferred to vessels in the form of liquefied natural gas (LNG). 
Existing regulations cover design, equipment, operations, and training 
of personnel on vessels that carry LNG as cargo and at waterfront 
facilities that handle LNG in bulk. They also cover conventional oil 
fuel transfer operations, but do not address LNG transferred as 
fuel.\1\
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    \1\ 33 CFR parts 127, 155 and 156; 46 CFR parts 10-15, 30-39, 
and 154.
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    On February 7, 2014, the Coast Guard published two draft policy 
letters (CG-OES 01-14 and CG-OES 02-14), requesting comments, that 
recommended the transfer procedures and other operating guidelines for 
vessels and waterfront facilities providing LNG to vessels for use as 
fuel and for vessels operating in U.S. waters that will be fueled with 
natural gas that will be stored onboard as LNG. The Coast Guard has 
revised these policy letters based on comments received and now makes 
the final policy letters available to the public.
    The policy letters and voluntary guidance do not apply to vessels 
regulated as LNG carriers that utilize their boil-off gas as fuel. They 
also do not provide guidance on vessel design criteria for natural gas 
fuel systems or design of vessels providing LNG for use as fuel. If you 
have questions about the design of these systems, please contact the 
Coast Guard's Office of Design and Engineering Standards (CG-ENG, 
formerly CG-521). See FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section for 
contact information.

Discussion

    The Coast Guard received 27 letters from the public containing a 
combined total of 185 individual comments which are discussed below. We 
discuss more fully the changes we made to the policy letters in 
response to comments.
    All letters received were generally supportive of the Coast Guard's 
effort to provide guidance on the use and transfer of LNG as a marine 
fuel and the Coast Guard appreciates this important feedback.
    We also received various comments recommending changes that cannot 
be made in a policy document because the Coast Guard would need to 
undergo rulemaking to make these recommended changes enforceable. For 
example, one submitter suggested that we provide specific details 
concerning the information that risk assessments should contain. 
Another submitter suggested that we provide common checklists for 
industry to follow when conducting bunkering operations. The Coast 
Guard will consider these comments and determine whether any further 
action is necessary. Additionally, the Coast Guard received comments on 
matters unrelated to the two policy letters discussed in this notice. 
Those comments have been reviewed but did not effect any changes to 
these policy letters. Examples of some of the comments we received 
pertaining to design were related to venting arrangements, LNG tank 
design, and gas detection.

[[Page 10132]]

    Vessel design issues relating to the technical aspects and problems 
inherent in vessel design are not discussed in Policy Letters 01-15 and 
02-15. We do not intend to include vessel design recommendations or 
equivalencies in either policy letter and thus comments requesting 
design related revisions cannot be incorporated. Information concerning 
design criteria for natural gas fuel systems can be found in CG-521 
Policy Letter 01-12, ``Equivalency Determination--Design Criteria For 
Natural Gas Fuel Systems,'' which can be viewed at the following 
location: http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cg5/cg521/docs/CG-521.PolicyLetter.01-12.pdf.
    The Coast Guard also identified certain non-substantive 
recommendations in comments. Many of these are useful and have been 
incorporated where appropriate.
    Six comments were submitted recommending that Compressed Natural 
Gas (CNG) and other alternative fuels be addressed in our policy 
letters. The Coast Guard believes it is better at this time to evaluate 
other alternative fuels on a case-by-case basis and will continue to 
gather information on how these alternative fuels are used to determine 
whether guidance is necessary and appropriate. One submitter suggested 
that it would be useful if we added language indicating how LNG differs 
from other ``conventional'' liquid hydrocarbon fuels. The Coast Guard 
agrees and added additional information in Policy Letter 01-15, 
Enclosure (1).
    Five comments were submitted on the topic of hot work. Based on the 
comments received, the Coast Guard revised its discussion on hot work 
in Policy Letter 01-15, Enclosure (1) to further clarify that hot work 
must be conducted in accordance with the existing regulations to which 
vessels are inspected. Where no regulations are specified, we recommend 
that the regulations in 46 CFR 91.50-1 be followed.
    Six comments were received on the Coast Guard's use of the term 
``in bulk.'' Three comments asked whether LNG packaged in ISO 
tanktainers, and loaded on a vessel, is not ``in bulk'' and therefore 
not subject to 33 CFR Part 127. The Coast Guard confirms that LNG in 
packaged form such as LNG in ISO tanktainers is not considered an ``in 
bulk'' shipment and the facility where those packages are loaded does 
not need to comply with 33 CFR Part 127. The Coast Guard further 
clarifies that LNG in ISO tanktainers is a hazardous material in 
packaged form and as such must be loaded from a facility that complies 
with 33 CFR Part 126. Three additional comments requested clarification 
on the Coast Guard's definition of the term ``bulk.'' In response to 
these requests, the Coast Guard clarifies in Policy Letter 01-15, 
Enclosure (1) that ``bulk'' has the meaning defined in the Marine 
Safety Manual as a material that is transported on board a vessel 
without mark or count and which is directly loaded into a hold or tank 
on a vessel without containers or wrappers.
    Six comments were received on LNG tank truck operations. Three 
spoke to matters involving the driving and transfer of LNG from tank 
trucks directly on a vessel, and one wanted to know why the Coast Guard 
doesn't discuss the activity. The Coast Guard does not discuss this 
type of operation because the operation is not considered as safe as 
other forms of transfer operations available. Driving LNG tank trucks 
aboard a vessel and conducting LNG transfer operations while aboard is 
considered to be a transfer involving a greater risk than other forms 
of LNG transfers because vessels and LNG tank trucks cannot remove 
themselves from the area in the event of an emergency. The Coast Guard 
does not wish to promote the operation in general, but remains open to 
evaluating requests on a case-by-case basis. One submitter requested to 
know if all of 33 CFR Part 127 would apply to LNG tank truck and rail 
car transfers. As discussed in Enclosure 1 of Policy Letter 02-15, 
existing regulatory standards may not be appropriate for small scale 
(e.g., LNG fuel transfer) operations and the Coast Guard Captain of the 
Port (COTP) may consider alternatives under 33 CFR 127.017.
    Five comments were received concerning ISO type tanks. One 
submitter noted that ISO tanks need to be properly approved and 
designed and are not as robust as type ``C'' tanks. The Coast Guard 
notes that LNG in portable tanks must meet specifications outlined by 
the Department of Transportation for transport and carriage of 
hazardous materials in accordance with the Hazardous Material 
Regulations contained in Title 49 of the U.S. Code of Federal 
Regulations. The Coast Guard Office of Design and Engineering (CG-ENG) 
and/or the Marine Safety Center will evaluate as part of their plan 
review and approval process the design and construction of tanks used 
to store LNG as fuel on board U.S. vessels.
    Four comments were received concerning guidance to the COTP for 
considering alternatives to the requirements in 33 CFR Part 127. Of 
those comments received, two comments also recommended Coast Guard 
Headquarters oversight so as to ensure greater consistency from port to 
port. The Coast Guard recognizes the need and desire for consistency 
from port to port and throughout the Coast Guard. To help COTPs 
understand alternatives which may be considered for the requirements in 
33 CFR Part 127, we have added a new enclosure. Enclosure (4) to Policy 
letter 02-15 has been added to provide COTPs with guidance as to 
alternatives which may be considered in lieu of the requirements of 33 
CFR Part 127 for LNG fuel facilities. Through publication of these 
policy letters and continued work within the Coast Guard, we hope to 
provide consistent application of regulations and policies for LNG 
operations throughout the country.
    Ten comments were received on the topic of conducting Risk 
Assessments. One of the submitters recommended we add more wording 
concerning identification of hazards (HAZID's), operational hazards 
(HAZOP's) and quantitaive risk assessments (QRA's). The Coast Guard 
agrees and added additional guidance and information concerning the 
need to conduct risk assessments. We have revised Enclosure 1 of Policy 
Letter 01-15 and Enclosures 1 and 2 of Policy Letter 02-15 to include 
more information on recommendations for risk assessments established by 
recognized industry organizations. Finally, one submitter stated that 
there is no clearly defined or broadly accepted standard for evaluating 
risk assessments and noted that NFPA standard 551 has some guidance 
which should be considered. For the purpose of harmonizing with the 
international community, we recommend and reference in the policy 
letters the publications of the classification society Det Norske 
Veritas--Germanischer Lloyd (DNV-GL) and the International Organization 
for Standardization (ISO) as guides which should be used to conduct 
risk assessments.
    The Coast Guard received twelve comments on training and drills. 
One submitter indicated that the Coast Guard should establish and 
specify definite training intervals in order to avoid differing 
interpretations. The Coast Guard agrees that guidance on appropriate 
intervals would be helpful and suggests as an example that the drills 
be conducted quarterly. One submitter indicated that they strongly 
support having defined training requirements and believe this will 
significantly contribute to a safer industry. The Coast Guard agrees. 
The amendments to this policy include recommended training provisions. 
This guidance identifies a two-tier system--basic and advanced training 
that

[[Page 10133]]

companies may use to structure their training. In addition, the company 
is also responsible for the vessel familiarization of the crew members 
which is ship and fuel specific and tailored to each mariner's onboard 
duties. The recommendations are consistent with the proposed 
International Maritime Organization (IMO) ``Interim guidance on 
training for seafarers on board ships using gases or other low-
flashpoint fuels'', STCW.7/Circ.23, the draft amendments to the STCW 
Convention, and the MERPAC recommendations on this issue. The Coast 
Guard has added a new Enclosure (3) to Policy Letter 01-15 which is 
based upon ``Interim guidance on training for seafarers on board ships 
using gases or other low-flashpoint fuels'', STCW.7/Circ.23. STCW.7/
Circ.23 is the final version of HTW 1/WP.3, Annex 5 that is referenced 
by the submitters. Another submitter also indicated they believed the 
Coast Guard should ensure the transitional provisions are followed as 
an interim measure until relevant STCW requirements come into force to 
allow for initial personnel training for the new technology. The Coast 
Guard agrees and is recommending interim steps as part of this policy 
letter to help ensure an orderly transition to future mandatory 
requirements. One submitter suggested that Enclosure (2) of Policy 
Letter 01-14 be deleted in its entirety because the guidelines 
contained in Resolution MSC.285(86) are expected to be superseded by 
new interim guidance recommended in HTW 1/WP.3, Annex 5 once the 
guidance is adopted by MSC. The Coast Guard agrees in part. Enclosure 2 
repeats Chapter 8 of IMO Resolution MSC.285(86), ``Interim guidelines 
on safety for natural gas-fuelled engine installations in ships,'' 
which contains both training and operational components. We've retained 
the operational components from Enclosure 2 and replaced the training 
components with the product from STCW.7/Circ.23, ``Interim guidance on 
training for seafarers on board ships using gases or other low-
flashpoint fuels'' as Enclosure (3). STCW.7/Circ.23 is the current IMO 
circular which is based upon the HTW 1/WP.3, Annex 5 that is being 
referenced by the submitters. One submitter recommended that the Coast 
Guard work towards approving training courses that meet the proposed 
requirements of part A (Annex 4) of HTW 1/WP.3 and look to begin 
issuing endorsements as quickly as possible. The Coast Guard agrees in 
principle but is unable to approve courses or issue endorsements until 
enabling regulations are in place. However, the Coast Guard is 
endeavoring to provide within CG-OES Policy Letter 01-15, interim 
guidance that can be used by maritime training providers, maritime 
companies and mariners to develop training courses and will review 
courses submitted on a voluntary basis that are designed to meet the 
training guidance outlined in Enclosure (3). The Coast Guard will issue 
a letter to maritime training providers attesting to the Coast Guard's 
review and conformance of these courses with the training recommended 
in this guidance. One submitter additionally noted that the various 
means of transfer would require various levels of qualification and 
training specific to transfers. The Coast Guard agrees that training 
guidelines would be helpful to companies involved in transfers. The 
Coast Guard has expanded the training guidelines in line with work 
currently ongoing at IMO and MERPAC recommendations. MERPAC provided 
recommendations on the content of the training, transitional 
provisions, and the proof of training. Their recommendations are 
included in the revised policy letter. As for mariners holding 
tankerman PIC (LG), tankerman-engineer (LG) and tankerman assistant 
(LG) endorsements, transition requirements have also been addressed.
    One submitter presumed that the Coast Guard will not require a 
special endorsement on a license or Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) for 
mariners serving aboard an LNG powered vessel other than the PIC, who 
must hold a proper endorsement in order to conduct the transfer 
operation. The submitter also stated that the policy letter was silent 
as to the level of competency that each company must provide for other 
shipboard personnel involved in LNG bunkering operations. In response, 
the Coast Guard has expanded the training section of the policy letter 
to include recommended training for members of the vessel's crew who 
have safety responsibilities in regard to the gases or low flashpoint 
fuels being used and that documentary evidence such as course 
completion certificates, company letters, etc., should be issued 
indicating that the holder has successfully completed the basic or 
advanced training, as appropriate--See Enclosure 3 of Policy Letter 01-
15. One submitter indicated that care should be taken to assure that 
training for personnel on board vessels using gas fuels are 
differentiated from a full tankerman (LG endorsement) as appropriate 
and that referencing the parts of 46 CFR that are for Tankerman should 
be eliminated. The Coast Guard agrees that vessel personnel on vessels 
using gases and low flashpoint fuels should be differentiated from full 
tankerman. As a result, recommendations specific to their training have 
been provided in Enclosure (3) accordingly.
    The Coast Guard received three comments concerning PICs. One 
submitter indicated that the Coast Guard needs to clarify the meaning 
of the word ``enough'' where it is stated that, ``. . . there must be 
enough Tankerman-PICs on duty . . .'' noting that the word ``enough'' 
is too vague. The Coast Guard notes the submitters concern, and 
understands that the term may be ambiguous. However, the term is 
carried forth from the existing regulations for cargo handling 
operations in 46 CFR 35.35-1 allowing flexibilty to owners, managing 
operators, masters, and PICs in determining the number of qualified 
personnel needed to safely transfer liquid cargo based on the details 
of a specific transfer operation. Enclosure 2 of Policy Letter 02-15, 
pertaining to tank vessels transfering LNG, remains unchanged in this 
regard and points to the regulations in 46 CFR 35.35-1 and 154.1831 
outlining the qualifications for personnel involved in liquid cargo 
transfer. However, aboard the receiving vessel that uses gases or low 
flashpoint fuels, the Coast Guard recommends in Enclosure (1) of Policy 
Letter 01-15, that the Master of a vessel using LNG as fuel should 
ensure that all personnel involved with LNG fuel use, transfer, or 
emergency response meet the standards of competence or advanced 
standards of competence outlined in Enclosure (3) of Policy Letter 01-
15 for the duties to which they are assigned. One submitter noted that 
both the receiving vessel and supplier of LNG have PICs but our policy 
letters did not discuss an overall PIC, and requested to know who the 
overall PIC is. The Coast Guard does not discuss designatation of an 
overall PIC, because the Coast Guard does not believe an overall PIC is 
necessary. Similar to conventional fuel transfer operations, no one 
individual is designated as having overall control and responsibility 
for the transfer. Each PIC is responsible for their part of the 
transfer operation (supplier and receiver) and each side of the 
transfer should have a means to stop the transfer in the event of an 
emergency (See 33 CFR 127.205 and 155.780). Both supplier and receiver 
must have a means for dedicated voice communication with each other in 
order to maintain oversight and control of LNG tanks and transfer lines 
(See 33 CFR 127.111 and 155.785). Given that personnel on either side 
of the transfer

[[Page 10134]]

may not be familiar or experienced with equipment on the other side, it 
would be improper to assign one entity as being in charge overall. For 
this reason, the transfer operation should be an event highly 
coordinated by both PICs. One submitter suggested the Coast Guard add 
three additional points covering PIC responsibilities--``Establishment 
of safety zone encompassing both supplier and receiving vessel,'' 
``Emergency response personnel defined and readiness,'' and 
``Monitoring of climatic conditions prior to and during transfer 
operations.'' The Coast Guard agrees in part and has modified the 
section in Enclosure (1) of Policy Letter 01-15 discussing PIC 
responsibilities to include checking for climatic conditions and 
setting safety and security areas around the LNG transfer area. 
Information related to emergency response is covered in item 2 of the 
same section.
    Two comments were submitted on portable gas detectors. Both 
expressed a belief that it was unnecessary for all personnel involved 
in an LNG transfer to have a portable gas detector and suggested that 
the policy letter align with existing regulations (See 33 CFR 127.203 
and 46 CFR 154.1345) which require at least 2 portable gas detectors in 
the marine transfer area. The Coast Guard agrees and has modified the 
policy letters to align with existing regulations.
    Eight comments were received concerning simultaneous operations. 
All but one supported the need to conduct simultaneous operations. The 
one comment submitted against simultaneous operations stated that 
simultaneous operations create a significant risk factor, dramatically 
increasing the likelihood of a casualty while fueling. The Coast Guard 
agrees that simultaneous operations may introduce increased risk, but 
believes that performance of a risk analysis and incorporation of risk 
mitigation measures can be useful toward decreasing the likelihood of a 
casualty occurring while fueling. One comment stated that simultaneous 
operations should not be treated any differently than current fueling 
operations. One comment indicated that simultaneous operations should 
only be allowed after a detailed risk analysis and dispersion analysis 
are completed. Two comments indicated the need to have a definitive 
statement that the Coast Guard recognizes the need to allow 
simultaneous operations. The Coast Guard agrees with the majority of 
commenters and has modified the discussion of simultaneous operations 
in Policy Letter 01-15, Enclosure (1) to include a more definitive 
statement concerning the need for considering simultaneous operations 
and identifies recommended industry standards which may be used by 
facility owners to conduct risk assessments. The Coast Guard does not 
wish to specify what operations may or may not be conducted 
simultaneously while LNG transfer operations are in progress and the 
COTP will evaluate each proposal on a case-by-case basis based on the 
specific hazards involved.
    Three comments were submitted on emergency shutdown devices (ESD). 
One submitter said all ESD components are to be tested no more than 24 
hours before commencement of the actual bunkering operation and that 
the tests should be documented in accordance with the bunkering 
procedure. The Coast Guard agrees. In accordance with 33 CFR 
127.315(i), and 156.120(r), the ESD system is currently required to be 
tested by the PIC prior to transfer which should be well within the 24 
hour period suggested. One submitter suggested that there could be an 
exemption for testing bunker tanker ESD equipment, provided evidence of 
regular testing is available or alternative requirements are deemed as 
an acceptable equivalence. The Coast Guard disagrees. As noted 
previously, testing of the ESD system must be conducted by the PIC 
prior to the transfer as required by existing regulations 33 CFR 
127.315(i), and 156.120(r). One submitter suggested that automatic 
activation of the ESD system due to a gas detection alarm should be 
reconsidered noting that gas detection systems have been prone to false 
alarms, particularly if located in humid areas, and repeated shutdowns 
due to erroneous alarms could create an unanticipated hazard. The Coast 
Guard is unaware of this being a widespread problem attributed to the 
performance of all gas detection systems available on the market. 
However, we have amended Policy Letter 01-15, Enclosure (1) such that 
gas detection is one of eight items that can be considered as a means 
to activate the ESD system.
    Two comments were received on checklists. One commenter indicated 
that compatibility between the LNG supplier and the vessel receiving 
LNG must be ensured in terms of LNG transfer system design, operational 
manuals, emergency response procedures and a common checklist for the 
LNG transfer operation. Another comment requested that we consider 
adopting a professional industry organization's bunker checklists into 
our policy letters. The Coast Guard agrees that the use of checklists 
is valuable. We have provided a hyperlink in our policy letters 
recommending that owners and operators involved in LNG transfer 
operations consider using checklists in order to help globally 
standardize LNG transfer operations.
    Five comments were submitted concerning hazard zones, safety 
distances, and transfer areas. One submitter questioned whether or not 
the transfer area is considered to be a hazardous area and asserted 
that no ignition sources should exist in the transfer area. The Coast 
Guard agrees and confirms that the transfer area is considered to be a 
hazardous area. Details concerning removal of ignition sources 
associated with LNG supply are addressed in Policy Letter 02-15 which 
focuses on vessels and facilities providing LNG as fuel. One submitter 
noted that we refer to transfer area and hazardous area, but believed 
that consideration on `Determination of safety and security zones' 
should be given. They also pointed out a key aspect with regard to the 
responsibility of the PIC is to establish the exchange of sufficient 
information to allow completion of a Declaration of Security (if 
required), agreement on how and between whom, communications regarding 
security that are to be made and actions to be taken in the event of a 
breach of security. Another submitter commented that there should be a 
discussion about hazardous areas and safety and security areas around 
the LNG transfer area. The Coast Guard agrees and has added a new 
paragraph discussing the items in Enclosure (1) of Policy Letter 01-15. 
One additional submitter stated that advice needs to be given regarding 
safety distances at different transfer rates, due to increasing 
``largest credible spills'' and that dispersion analysis needs to be 
included. The Coast Guard agrees with the need to provide additional 
information concerning safety and security areas and has added 
information in Policy Letter 01-15, Enclosure (1) indicating they 
should be established in accordance with industry standards established 
by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) which is a 
recognized organization that has published information related to 
determining the size of safety and security areas around LNG transfer 
points. The Coast Guard doesn't agree with the need to require a 
declaration of security at this time, and notes that existing 
regulations concerning the declaration of inspection (33 CFR 127.317, 
and 33 CFR 156.150) require PICs to conduct a series of checks before

[[Page 10135]]

transfer operations, including ensuring that communications are 
operable between PICs involved in the transfer. The Coast Guard agrees 
that breaches in safety and security areas should be evaluated and has 
included a recommendation that a contingency plan be developed 
concerning how to handle and respond to them. One submitter stated that 
consideration should be given to include the scope for interaction of a 
vessel's hazardous areas, emergency response equipment (firefighting, 
mechanical ventilation, etc.) emergency response procedures and linked 
ESD systems. The Coast Guard agrees. These items should be considered 
as part of the compatability assessment we recommend to be conducted 
between suppliers and receivers of LNG. We also recommend that 
emergency response manuals be developed and provide a list of 
recommended information they should contain.
    Four comments were submitted concerning pipelines. One comment 
suggested that we delete references to bonding of pipelines in Policy 
Letter 01-14, Enclosure (1) in the section discussing detailed diagrams 
of the transfer area. The submitter indicated it was not clear how this 
would be shown on a diagram. The Coast Guard agrees and has removed the 
item as suggested. One submitter addressed the discussion on, ``Conduct 
before a LNG Fuel Transfer'' under Regulations and Recommendations for 
Vessels Bunkering LNG, of Enclosure (2) to CG-OES Policy Letter No. 02-
14. The submitter noted the policy letter states that before 
transferring LNG to a vessel for use of gas as fuel, the PIC for 
transferring LNG should inspect the accessible portions of the transfer 
piping system and equipment to be used during the transfer and ensure 
that any worn or inoperable parts are replaced and any leaks are 
identified. The Coast Guard agrees and has added an item recommending 
that the transfer piping be tested for leaks prior to the transfer of 
LNG. Finally, one comment was received concerning Policy Letter 02-14, 
Enclosure (2) section discussing, ``Conduct after a LNG Fuel 
Transfer.'' The submitter requested adding a requirement to ensure that 
transfer hoses, manifolds, and associated piping are purged so that 
natural gas levels are below the lower flammability level. The Coast 
Guard has amended the section to recommend these types of safety 
measures.
    We received one comment on loading flanges. The submitter indicated 
the existing regulations contain seemingly contradictory provisions 
which could complicate the siting, permitting and operation of such 
facilities. The submitter noted that Part 127 and Part 193 contain 
differing requirements in terms of the location of LNG loading flanges 
in relation to nearby bridges. The Coast Guard understands the 
concerns, but notes that any correction to these regulations would need 
to go through the Department of Transporation or USCG rulemaking 
process. Therefore, the noted discrepancies cannot be rectified through 
these policy letters.
    We received one comment concerning transfer hoses. The submitter 
referenced an early draft version of our policy letter suggesting that 
the transfer hose should include provisions to prevent electrical flow 
during connection or disconnection of the transfer hose string through 
the hose string or loading arm. The insertion of one short length of 
non-conducting hose without internal bonding in each hose string, or 
installation of an insulating flange, should be addressed. In addition, 
the submitter suggested that each transfer hose string should contain 
only one electrically discontinuous length of hose or insulating 
flange, to prevent electrostatic build-up in the hose string. The Coast 
Guard agrees and has amended Policy Letter 02-15, Enclosure (2) to 
include these recommendations.
    One comment was received on lighting whereby the submitter 
suggested that the intensity levels should not be specified. The Coast 
Guard disagrees as the lighting intensity levels specified in the 
policy letters simply mirror existing federal regulations already 
imposed for transfer operations. See 33 CFR 127.109 and 155.790.
    One comment was submitted concerning operations manuals whereby the 
submitter said there should be a provision to demonstrate that all 
relevant personnel are familiar with the operations manual. The Coast 
Guard agrees and has modified the opening paragraph discussing 
operation, emergency, and maintenance manuals in policy letter 01-15, 
Enclosure (1) indicating that the master of a vessel using LNG as fuel 
should ensure that all personnel involved with LNG fuel use, transfer, 
or emergency response are familiar with the contents of the LNG fuel 
transfer system operations manual.
    We received three comments concerning emergency procedures. One 
commenter stated that simultaneous operations imposes the need for more 
requirements, especially where passengers, public or non-qualified/
briefed personnel are in proximity of the bunkering operation. At a 
minimum, the submitter stated a need to consider emergency procedures 
for handling of passengers in the event of an incident during 
bunkering. The Coast Guard agrees and has modified Policy Letter 01-15, 
Enclosure (1) to include a provision in the emergency manual for 
removing or relocating passengers in the event of an LNG incident 
during bunkering. One commenter suggested that the LNG bunkering and 
emergency response procedures take into account the LNG bunkering 
system in place and that the results of the risk assessment studies are 
adequately managed. The Coast Guard agrees and has included reference 
to recognized standards for conducting risk assessments which are 
identified in Enclosure 1 of Policy Letter 01-15 and Enclosures 1 and 2 
of Policy Letter 02-15. The risk assessment we recommend should be 
based on specific details of the operation intended and identify 
associated risks and hazards and the means to mitigate those risks. The 
risk assessment is expected to be used as a guide to assist owners and 
operators in developing their bunkering and emergency response 
procedures. One commenter asked for guidance on what security 
requirements, if any, will be required for the vessel arriving at the 
facility to receive LNG for fuel. If applicable, the security 
requirements for vessels may be based on the requirements of 33 CFR 
part 104--Maritime Security: Vessels. Additionally, a safety or 
security zone may be established around a vessel by the COTP if it is 
determined necessary based on the results of a risk assessment.
    Six comments were received concerning the topic of LNG bunkering. 
One commenter suggested that LNG bunkering procedures should ensure 
that unauthorized and non-essential personnel cannot enter the 
bunkering area. The Coast Guard agrees and has amended Policy Letter 
01-15, Enclosure (1) to include a recommendation that procedures be 
established for setting, securing, and clearing safety and security 
areas around the LNG transfer point. Two commenters recommended that 
the operator define the operational envelope under which transfer can 
take place noting that this should be indicated as a ``permissible 
range of motion where transfer operations can proceed (to be defined 
for the operation as well as the transfer equipment)'', and be included 
in the Operations manual. The Coast Guard agrees and has amended Policy 
Letter 01-15, Enclosure (1) recommending that the operations manual 
define the operating envelope for which safe transfer operations can

[[Page 10136]]

and cannot occur. One submitter suggested that paragraph 5b. of Policy 
Letter No. 01-14 be modified to impose a mutual obligation on both the 
transferring vessel operator and the receiving vessel operator to 
ensure that both parties have the personnel and equipment to safely 
conduct LNG bunkering operations. The Coast Guard agrees and has added 
recommended information related to the declaration of inspection which 
must be signed and completed by both persons in charge of the transfer 
in accordance with 33 CFR 156.150 signifying a mutal obligation on the 
part of both parties. One commenter stated that it is critical to have 
a common set of regulatory procedures for all LNG bunkering operations 
in all ports in the United States (as exists today under 33 CFR part 
127 and elsewhere) which companies could incorporate into their 
operational plans and crew training. The Coast Guard agrees that 
standardized procedures help ensure safe transfer operations and 
believes the policy letters will help establish guidelines for 
standardized industry procedures.
    Eight comments were submitted concerning referenced standards. The 
Coast Guard received one comment pointing out that the reference to 
SIGTTO's LNG Ship to Ship Transfer Guidelines, 1st Edition, 2011, was 
outdated and should be replaced with SIGTTO's ``Ship to Ship Transfer 
Guide--Petroleum, Chemicals, & Liquefied Gases,'' 1st Edition, 2013, 
whenever referenced. The Coast Guard agrees and has modified the policy 
letters as suggested to reflect the updated industry standard. One 
comment requested referencing NFPA 59A, the ``Standard for the 
Production, Storage, and Handling of Liquefied Natural Gas'' and 
SIGTTO's ``Liquid Gas Fire Hazard Management'' in our discussion of 
firefighting equipment in Policy Letter 02-14, Enclosure (2). The Coast 
Guard agrees in part and has added a reference to the SIGTTO 
publication, but does not reference NFPA 59A because the standard 
refers to shore based LNG storage and production facilities and 
Enclosure (2) of Policy Letter 02-15 is focused on vessels providing 
LNG as fuel. We received a comment suggesting that we add a reference 
to SIGTTO 2009 publication, ``ESD Arrangements & Linked Ship/Shore 
Systems for Liquefied Gas Carriers'' in the discussion of emergency 
shutdown devices in Enclosure (1) of Policy Letter 01-14. The Coast 
Guard agrees and has modified the section as requested. Two comments 
suggested full incorporation of International Maritime Organization 
(IMO) standards and guidelines. Policy letter 01-15 outlines these 
operational items in great detail but we have added a recommendation to 
better align with IMO guidance noting that procedures for confined 
space entry should be included in the operations manual. One submitter 
provided a list of industry standards and guides which the Coast Guard 
should consider recognizing. The Coast Guard has provided a hyperlink 
to a free publication provided by the LNG Ship Fuel Advisory Group, 
titled, ``Standards and Guidelines for Natural Gas Fuelled Ship 
Projects'' which identifies many of these standards and recommends that 
owners and operators become familiar with its contents. This change can 
be found in Policy Letter 01-15, Enclosure (1), and Policy Letter 02-
15, Enclosures (1) and (2) under the section labeled Job Aides.
    One submitter suggested Policy Letter 01-14, Enclosure (1) not 
recommend installation of firefighting equipment on unmanned barges 
because potential operating scenarios of a barge may include operations 
away from the LNG facility and firefighting capabilities of a towing 
vessel during vessel-to-vessel operations could be difficult to ensure. 
The Coast Guard disagrees and believes operators should consider all 
firefighting equipment available in the vicinity of an LNG transfer 
operation whether the transfer is off port or at shore. When conducting 
a safety assessment for a particular operation, all available 
firefighting equipment and emergency response equipment should be 
considered.
    One comment suggested that due to the cryogenic properties of LNG, 
personal protective equipment should be listed with more specificity, 
including such items as leather working boots (no canvas sneakers 
should be worn during fueling or transfer operations), loose fitting 
fire resistant gloves, full face shields, and fit-for purpose multi-
layer clothing. The Coast Guard agrees and has modified the sections in 
Policy Letter 01-15, Enclosure (1) and Policy Letter 02-15, Enclosure 
(2) discussing recommended personal protective equipment.
    The Coast Guard received comments about how the policy letters will 
be enforced. One commenter raised concerns regarding the notice and 
comment process of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), 5 U.S.C. 
551, et seq., with regard to the guidance document process and Due 
Process concerns of appealing a Coast Guard decision. The Coast Guard 
notes that guidance documents are by their nature non-binding as they 
are created to assist the industry in absence of other sources or in 
explaining existing regulatory requirements. These policy letters 
provide clarification to industry of existing requirements and how to 
apply them in this quickly changing environment. These policy letters 
do not impose legally binding requirements and a company can choose not 
to adopt the recommendations in the policy letter if it desires. There 
is no enforcement action associated with these recommendations and thus 
no appeal process is necessary. However, it is important to note that 
anyone affected by a direct decision of an OCMI/COTP can appeal that 
decision to the District Commander as provided for in 46 CFR 1.03-20 
and 33 CFR 127.015. Finally, the Coast Guard received one comment 
requesting clarification on the statement in Policy Letter 01-14 
indicating that it is the responsibility of the operator of the 
facility and/or the transferring vessel to ensure that the receiving 
vessel has the necessary personnel and equipment to safely and securely 
participate in the conduct of an LNG transfer operation. While the 
regulations in 33 CFR Part 127, Subpart B, indicate the primary 
responsibility for ensuring appropriate LNG transfer protocols are 
followed lies with the facility operator, the receiving vessel is 
required by 33 CFR 156.120 and 156.150 to identify a PIC of transfer 
operations on the vessel who will assist the PIC of shoreside transfer 
operations in conducting the preliminary transfer inspection required 
and completing the declaration of inspections required by 33 CFR 
127.317 and 156.150. The qualifications set forth at 33 CFR 127.301 and 
33 CFR 155.710 (Qualifications of person in charge) are good guidance 
for assigning a PIC. Addtionally, this policy sets forth recommended 
personnel training guidelines for those personnel who will participate 
in the transfer operation.
    We received one comment asking for guidance on the topic of roll 
over. As a result of this comment, the Coast Guard added roll over to 
the list of items in Policy Letter 01-15, Enclosure (1) for which 
emergency actions and response measures should be described in the 
emergency manual.
    One comment suggested that the word, ``if used'' be deleted in 
enclosure (1) to CG-OES Policy Letter No. 01-14, on page 2, under the 
heading, ``Operations, Emergency, and Maintenance Manuals,'' noting 
that inert gas must be used to prevent potentially explosive 
conditions. The Coast Guard agrees and has amended the policy letter as 
suggested.
    Finally, one comment was submitted requesting that the Coast Guard

[[Page 10137]]

elaborate what is meant by the boundary of a facility conducting 
bunkering. In response, the Coast Guard provides that the boundaries of 
an LNG facility handling LNG should be based on the requirements for 
design and spacing in NFPA 59A as outlined in 33 CFR Part 127 and any 
risk or fire safety assessments that may be prepared for the specific 
operation. The boundary of each facility conducting bunkering should be 
based on details of the specific bunkering operation.

Voluntary Policy

    The Coast Guard's intent in issuing these policy letters is to 
assist the industry, public, Coast Guard, and other Federal and State 
regulators in applying existing statutory and regulatory requirements. 
Following the policy and guidance recommended in these policy letters 
is voluntary. The policy letters are not a substitute for applicable 
legal requirements nor are they regulations themselves. The policy 
letters, however, do contain references to existing requlations which 
may require certain action where applicable. The Coast Guard notes 
those instances where it discusses requirements under existing 
regulations instead of policy or guidance. Nothing in the policy 
letters and guidance they contain are meant to override or subvert the 
discretion of the COTP when addressing the unique safety and security 
concerns of an LNG operation.
    This notice is issued under authority of 5 U.S.C. 552(a).

    Dated: February 19, 2015.
J.G. Lantz,
Director of Commercial Regulations and Standards, U.S. Coast Guard.
[FR Doc. 2015-03852 Filed 2-24-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9110-04-P



                                                                              Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 37 / Wednesday, February 25, 2015 / Notices                                          10131

                                                      Contact Person: William A. Greenberg,                 in this notice, Policy Letter 01–14                      On February 7, 2014, the Coast Guard
                                                    Ph.D., Scientific Review Officer, Center for            became Policy Letter 01–15 and Policy                 published two draft policy letters (CG–
                                                    Scientific Review, National Institutes of               Letter 02–14 became Policy Letter 02–                 OES 01–14 and CG–OES 02–14),
                                                    Health, 6701 Rockledge Drive, Room 4168,                15.                                                   requesting comments, that
                                                    MSC 7806, Bethesda, MD 20892, (301) 435–
                                                    1726, greenbergwa@csr.nih.gov.                          FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If                   recommended the transfer procedures
                                                                                                            you have questions on this notice, call               and other operating guidelines for
                                                    (Catalogue of Federal Domestic Assistance
                                                    Program Nos. 93.306, Comparative Medicine;              or email Ken Smith, Vessel and Facility               vessels and waterfront facilities
                                                    93.333, Clinical Research, 93.306, 93.333,              Operating Standards Division (CG–                     providing LNG to vessels for use as fuel
                                                    93.337, 93.393–93.396, 93.837–93.844,                   OES–2), U.S. Coast Guard; telephone                   and for vessels operating in U.S. waters
                                                    93.846–93.878, 93.892, 93.893, National                 202–372–1413, email Ken.A.Smith@                      that will be fueled with natural gas that
                                                    Institutes of Health, HHS)                              uscg.mil. If you have questions on                    will be stored onboard as LNG. The
                                                                                                            viewing or submitting material to the                 Coast Guard has revised these policy
                                                      Dated: February 19, 2015.
                                                                                                            docket, call Cheryl Collins, Program                  letters based on comments received and
                                                    Carolyn Baum,                                                                                                 now makes the final policy letters
                                                                                                            Manager, Docket Operations, telephone
                                                    Program Analyst, Office of Federal Advisory                                                                   available to the public.
                                                    Committee Policy.                                       202–366–9826.
                                                                                                                                                                     The policy letters and voluntary
                                                                                                            SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                    [FR Doc. 2015–03778 Filed 2–24–15; 8:45 am]                                                                   guidance do not apply to vessels
                                                                                                               Viewing material in the docket: To
                                                    BILLING CODE 4140–01–P                                                                                        regulated as LNG carriers that utilize
                                                                                                            view the policy letters and related
                                                                                                                                                                  their boil-off gas as fuel. They also do
                                                                                                            material, go to http://
                                                                                                                                                                  not provide guidance on vessel design
                                                                                                            www.regulations.gov, type the docket
                                                    DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND                                                                                        criteria for natural gas fuel systems or
                                                                                                            number (USCG–2013–1084) in the
                                                    SECURITY                                                                                                      design of vessels providing LNG for use
                                                                                                            ‘‘SEARCH’’ box and click ‘‘SEARCH.’’
                                                                                                                                                                  as fuel. If you have questions about the
                                                                                                            Click on ‘‘Open Docket Folder’’ on the
                                                    Coast Guard                                                                                                   design of these systems, please contact
                                                                                                            line associated with this notice. If you
                                                                                                                                                                  the Coast Guard’s Office of Design and
                                                    [Docket No. USCG–2013–1084]                             do not have access to the Internet, you
                                                                                                                                                                  Engineering Standards (CG–ENG,
                                                                                                            may view the docket online by visiting
                                                    Policy Letters: Guidance for the Use of                                                                       formerly CG–521). See FOR FURTHER
                                                                                                            the Docket Management facility in
                                                    Liquefied Natural Gas as a Marine Fuel                                                                        INFORMATION CONTACT section for contact
                                                                                                            Room W12–140 on the ground floor of
                                                                                                                                                                  information.
                                                    AGENCY:   Coast Guard, DHS.                             the Department of Transportation West
                                                                                                            Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,                 Discussion
                                                    ACTION:   Notice of availability.
                                                                                                            Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m.                     The Coast Guard received 27 letters
                                                    SUMMARY:    On February 7, 2014, the                    and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,                    from the public containing a combined
                                                    Coast Guard announced the availability,                 except Federal holidays. We have an                   total of 185 individual comments which
                                                    in the docket, of two draft policy letters              agreement with the Department of                      are discussed below. We discuss more
                                                    for which it sought public comment.                     Transportation to use the Docket                      fully the changes we made to the policy
                                                    This notice announces the availability                  Management Facility.                                  letters in response to comments.
                                                    of the finalized Coast Guard policy                        Privacy Act: Anyone can search the                    All letters received were generally
                                                    letters, including explanations of                      electronic form of comments received                  supportive of the Coast Guard’s effort to
                                                    changes made to the policy letters and                  into any of our dockets by the name of                provide guidance on the use and
                                                    enclosures based on the public                          the individual submitting the comment                 transfer of LNG as a marine fuel and the
                                                    comments received. The first policy                     (or signing the comment, if submitted                 Coast Guard appreciates this important
                                                    letter provides voluntary guidance for                  on behalf of an association, business,                feedback.
                                                    liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel transfer               labor union, etc.). You may review a                     We also received various comments
                                                    operations on vessels using natural gas                 Privacy Act, system of records notice                 recommending changes that cannot be
                                                    as fuel in U.S. waters, and training of                 regarding our public dockets in the                   made in a policy document because the
                                                    personnel on those vessels. It                          January 17, 2008, issue of the Federal                Coast Guard would need to undergo
                                                    recommends transfer and personnel                       Register (73 FR 3316).                                rulemaking to make these recommended
                                                    training measures that we believe will                  Background and Purpose                                changes enforceable. For example, one
                                                    achieve a level of safety that is at least                                                                    submitter suggested that we provide
                                                                                                               The shipping industry is exploring
                                                    equivalent to that provided for                                                                               specific details concerning the
                                                                                                            conversion from oil-based fuel to
                                                    traditional fueled vessels. It applies to               cleaner burning natural gas, because the              information that risk assessments
                                                    vessels equipped to receive LNG for use                 use of natural gas as fuel would                      should contain. Another submitter
                                                    as fuel, but not to vessels regulated as                substantially reduce carbon emissions,                suggested that we provide common
                                                    LNG carriers that utilize boil-off gas as               sulfur emissions, and nitrogen oxide                  checklists for industry to follow when
                                                    fuel. The second policy letter discusses                emissions. This natural gas fuel would                conducting bunkering operations. The
                                                    voluntary guidance and existing                         be stored on and transferred to vessels               Coast Guard will consider these
                                                    regulations applicable to vessels and                   in the form of liquefied natural gas                  comments and determine whether any
                                                    waterfront facilities conducting LNG                    (LNG). Existing regulations cover                     further action is necessary.
                                                    marine fuel transfer (bunkering)                        design, equipment, operations, and                    Additionally, the Coast Guard received
                                                    operations. The second policy letter                                                                          comments on matters unrelated to the
asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES




                                                                                                            training of personnel on vessels that
                                                    provides voluntary guidance on safety,                  carry LNG as cargo and at waterfront                  two policy letters discussed in this
                                                    security, and risk assessment measures                  facilities that handle LNG in bulk. They              notice. Those comments have been
                                                    we believe will enhance safe LNG                        also cover conventional oil fuel transfer             reviewed but did not effect any changes
                                                    bunkering operations. Both policy                       operations, but do not address LNG                    to these policy letters. Examples of some
                                                    letters are available on the public                     transferred as fuel.1                                 of the comments we received pertaining
                                                    docket. They have been updated to                                                                             to design were related to venting
                                                    reflect publication numbers of the                        1 33 CFR parts 127, 155 and 156; 46 CFR parts 10–   arrangements, LNG tank design, and gas
                                                    current year. Accordingly, as discussed                 15, 30–39, and 154.                                   detection.


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                                                    10132                     Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 37 / Wednesday, February 25, 2015 / Notices

                                                       Vessel design issues relating to the                 comments requested clarification on the               ensure greater consistency from port to
                                                    technical aspects and problems inherent                 Coast Guard’s definition of the term                  port. The Coast Guard recognizes the
                                                    in vessel design are not discussed in                   ‘‘bulk.’’ In response to these requests,              need and desire for consistency from
                                                    Policy Letters 01–15 and 02–15. We do                   the Coast Guard clarifies in Policy Letter            port to port and throughout the Coast
                                                    not intend to include vessel design                     01–15, Enclosure (1) that ‘‘bulk’’ has the            Guard. To help COTPs understand
                                                    recommendations or equivalencies in                     meaning defined in the Marine Safety                  alternatives which may be considered
                                                    either policy letter and thus comments                  Manual as a material that is transported              for the requirements in 33 CFR Part 127,
                                                    requesting design related revisions                     on board a vessel without mark or count               we have added a new enclosure.
                                                    cannot be incorporated. Information                     and which is directly loaded into a hold              Enclosure (4) to Policy letter 02–15 has
                                                    concerning design criteria for natural                  or tank on a vessel without containers                been added to provide COTPs with
                                                    gas fuel systems can be found in CG–                    or wrappers.                                          guidance as to alternatives which may
                                                    521 Policy Letter 01–12, ‘‘Equivalency                     Six comments were received on LNG                  be considered in lieu of the
                                                    Determination—Design Criteria For                       tank truck operations. Three spoke to                 requirements of 33 CFR Part 127 for
                                                    Natural Gas Fuel Systems,’’ which can                   matters involving the driving and                     LNG fuel facilities. Through publication
                                                    be viewed at the following location:                    transfer of LNG from tank trucks                      of these policy letters and continued
                                                    http://www.uscg.mil/hq/cg5/cg521/                       directly on a vessel, and one wanted to               work within the Coast Guard, we hope
                                                    docs/CG-521.PolicyLetter.01-12.pdf.                     know why the Coast Guard doesn’t                      to provide consistent application of
                                                       The Coast Guard also identified                      discuss the activity. The Coast Guard                 regulations and policies for LNG
                                                    certain non-substantive                                 does not discuss this type of operation               operations throughout the country.
                                                    recommendations in comments. Many                       because the operation is not considered                  Ten comments were received on the
                                                    of these are useful and have been                       as safe as other forms of transfer                    topic of conducting Risk Assessments.
                                                    incorporated where appropriate.                         operations available. Driving LNG tank                One of the submitters recommended we
                                                       Six comments were submitted                          trucks aboard a vessel and conducting                 add more wording concerning
                                                    recommending that Compressed Natural                    LNG transfer operations while aboard is               identification of hazards (HAZID’s),
                                                    Gas (CNG) and other alternative fuels be                considered to be a transfer involving a               operational hazards (HAZOP’s) and
                                                    addressed in our policy letters. The                    greater risk than other forms of LNG                  quantitaive risk assessments (QRA’s).
                                                    Coast Guard believes it is better at this               transfers because vessels and LNG tank                The Coast Guard agrees and added
                                                    time to evaluate other alternative fuels                trucks cannot remove themselves from                  additional guidance and information
                                                    on a case-by-case basis and will                        the area in the event of an emergency.                concerning the need to conduct risk
                                                    continue to gather information on how                   The Coast Guard does not wish to                      assessments. We have revised Enclosure
                                                    these alternative fuels are used to                     promote the operation in general, but                 1 of Policy Letter 01–15 and Enclosures
                                                    determine whether guidance is                           remains open to evaluating requests on                1 and 2 of Policy Letter 02–15 to include
                                                    necessary and appropriate. One                          a case-by-case basis. One submitter                   more information on recommendations
                                                    submitter suggested that it would be                    requested to know if all of 33 CFR Part               for risk assessments established by
                                                    useful if we added language indicating                  127 would apply to LNG tank truck and                 recognized industry organizations.
                                                    how LNG differs from other                              rail car transfers. As discussed in                   Finally, one submitter stated that there
                                                    ‘‘conventional’’ liquid hydrocarbon                     Enclosure 1 of Policy Letter 02–15,                   is no clearly defined or broadly
                                                    fuels. The Coast Guard agrees and added                 existing regulatory standards may not be              accepted standard for evaluating risk
                                                    additional information in Policy Letter                 appropriate for small scale (e.g., LNG                assessments and noted that NFPA
                                                    01–15, Enclosure (1).                                   fuel transfer) operations and the Coast               standard 551 has some guidance which
                                                       Five comments were submitted on the                  Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) may                  should be considered. For the purpose
                                                    topic of hot work. Based on the                         consider alternatives under 33 CFR                    of harmonizing with the international
                                                    comments received, the Coast Guard                      127.017.                                              community, we recommend and
                                                    revised its discussion on hot work in                      Five comments were received                        reference in the policy letters the
                                                    Policy Letter 01–15, Enclosure (1) to                   concerning ISO type tanks. One                        publications of the classification society
                                                    further clarify that hot work must be                   submitter noted that ISO tanks need to                Det Norske Veritas—Germanischer
                                                    conducted in accordance with the                        be properly approved and designed and                 Lloyd (DNV–GL) and the International
                                                    existing regulations to which vessels are               are not as robust as type ‘‘C’’ tanks. The            Organization for Standardization (ISO)
                                                    inspected. Where no regulations are                     Coast Guard notes that LNG in portable                as guides which should be used to
                                                    specified, we recommend that the                        tanks must meet specifications outlined               conduct risk assessments.
                                                    regulations in 46 CFR 91.50–1 be                        by the Department of Transportation for                  The Coast Guard received twelve
                                                    followed.                                               transport and carriage of hazardous                   comments on training and drills. One
                                                       Six comments were received on the                    materials in accordance with the                      submitter indicated that the Coast Guard
                                                    Coast Guard’s use of the term ‘‘in bulk.’’              Hazardous Material Regulations                        should establish and specify definite
                                                    Three comments asked whether LNG                        contained in Title 49 of the U.S. Code                training intervals in order to avoid
                                                    packaged in ISO tanktainers, and loaded                 of Federal Regulations. The Coast Guard               differing interpretations. The Coast
                                                    on a vessel, is not ‘‘in bulk’’ and                     Office of Design and Engineering (CG–                 Guard agrees that guidance on
                                                    therefore not subject to 33 CFR Part 127.               ENG) and/or the Marine Safety Center                  appropriate intervals would be helpful
                                                    The Coast Guard confirms that LNG in                    will evaluate as part of their plan review            and suggests as an example that the
                                                    packaged form such as LNG in ISO                        and approval process the design and                   drills be conducted quarterly. One
                                                    tanktainers is not considered an ‘‘in                   construction of tanks used to store LNG               submitter indicated that they strongly
asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES




                                                    bulk’’ shipment and the facility where                  as fuel on board U.S. vessels.                        support having defined training
                                                    those packages are loaded does not need                    Four comments were received                        requirements and believe this will
                                                    to comply with 33 CFR Part 127. The                     concerning guidance to the COTP for                   significantly contribute to a safer
                                                    Coast Guard further clarifies that LNG in               considering alternatives to the                       industry. The Coast Guard agrees. The
                                                    ISO tanktainers is a hazardous material                 requirements in 33 CFR Part 127. Of                   amendments to this policy include
                                                    in packaged form and as such must be                    those comments received, two                          recommended training provisions. This
                                                    loaded from a facility that complies                    comments also recommended Coast                       guidance identifies a two-tier system—
                                                    with 33 CFR Part 126. Three additional                  Guard Headquarters oversight so as to                 basic and advanced training that


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                                                                              Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 37 / Wednesday, February 25, 2015 / Notices                                            10133

                                                    companies may use to structure their                    are in place. However, the Coast Guard                using gases and low flashpoint fuels
                                                    training. In addition, the company is                   is endeavoring to provide within CG–                  should be differentiated from full
                                                    also responsible for the vessel                         OES Policy Letter 01–15, interim                      tankerman. As a result,
                                                    familiarization of the crew members                     guidance that can be used by maritime                 recommendations specific to their
                                                    which is ship and fuel specific and                     training providers, maritime companies                training have been provided in
                                                    tailored to each mariner’s onboard                      and mariners to develop training                      Enclosure (3) accordingly.
                                                    duties. The recommendations are                         courses and will review courses                          The Coast Guard received three
                                                    consistent with the proposed                            submitted on a voluntary basis that are               comments concerning PICs. One
                                                    International Maritime Organization                     designed to meet the training guidance                submitter indicated that the Coast Guard
                                                    (IMO) ‘‘Interim guidance on training for                outlined in Enclosure (3). The Coast                  needs to clarify the meaning of the word
                                                    seafarers on board ships using gases or                 Guard will issue a letter to maritime                 ‘‘enough’’ where it is stated that, ‘‘. . .
                                                    other low-flashpoint fuels’’, STCW.7/                   training providers attesting to the Coast             there must be enough Tankerman-PICs
                                                    Circ.23, the draft amendments to the                    Guard’s review and conformance of                     on duty . . .’’ noting that the word
                                                    STCW Convention, and the MERPAC                         these courses with the training                       ‘‘enough’’ is too vague. The Coast Guard
                                                    recommendations on this issue. The                      recommended in this guidance. One                     notes the submitters concern, and
                                                    Coast Guard has added a new Enclosure                   submitter additionally noted that the                 understands that the term may be
                                                    (3) to Policy Letter 01–15 which is based               various means of transfer would require               ambiguous. However, the term is carried
                                                    upon ‘‘Interim guidance on training for                 various levels of qualification and                   forth from the existing regulations for
                                                    seafarers on board ships using gases or                 training specific to transfers. The Coast             cargo handling operations in 46 CFR
                                                    other low-flashpoint fuels’’, STCW.7/                   Guard agrees that training guidelines                 35.35–1 allowing flexibilty to owners,
                                                    Circ.23. STCW.7/Circ.23 is the final                    would be helpful to companies involved                managing operators, masters, and PICs
                                                    version of HTW 1/WP.3, Annex 5 that                     in transfers. The Coast Guard has                     in determining the number of qualified
                                                    is referenced by the submitters. Another                expanded the training guidelines in line              personnel needed to safely transfer
                                                    submitter also indicated they believed                  with work currently ongoing at IMO and                liquid cargo based on the details of a
                                                    the Coast Guard should ensure the                       MERPAC recommendations. MERPAC                        specific transfer operation. Enclosure 2
                                                    transitional provisions are followed as                 provided recommendations on the                       of Policy Letter 02–15, pertaining to
                                                    an interim measure until relevant STCW                  content of the training, transitional                 tank vessels transfering LNG, remains
                                                    requirements come into force to allow                   provisions, and the proof of training.                unchanged in this regard and points to
                                                    for initial personnel training for the new              Their recommendations are included in                 the regulations in 46 CFR 35.35–1 and
                                                    technology. The Coast Guard agrees and                  the revised policy letter. As for mariners            154.1831 outlining the qualifications for
                                                    is recommending interim steps as part                   holding tankerman PIC (LG), tankerman-                personnel involved in liquid cargo
                                                    of this policy letter to help ensure an                 engineer (LG) and tankerman assistant                 transfer. However, aboard the receiving
                                                    orderly transition to future mandatory                  (LG) endorsements, transition                         vessel that uses gases or low flashpoint
                                                    requirements. One submitter suggested                   requirements have also been addressed.                fuels, the Coast Guard recommends in
                                                    that Enclosure (2) of Policy Letter 01–14                  One submitter presumed that the                    Enclosure (1) of Policy Letter 01–15,
                                                    be deleted in its entirety because the                  Coast Guard will not require a special                that the Master of a vessel using LNG as
                                                    guidelines contained in Resolution                      endorsement on a license or Merchant                  fuel should ensure that all personnel
                                                    MSC.285(86) are expected to be                          Mariner Document (MMD) for mariners                   involved with LNG fuel use, transfer, or
                                                    superseded by new interim guidance                      serving aboard an LNG powered vessel                  emergency response meet the standards
                                                    recommended in HTW 1/WP.3, Annex 5                      other than the PIC, who must hold a                   of competence or advanced standards of
                                                    once the guidance is adopted by MSC.                    proper endorsement in order to conduct                competence outlined in Enclosure (3) of
                                                    The Coast Guard agrees in part.                         the transfer operation. The submitter                 Policy Letter 01–15 for the duties to
                                                    Enclosure 2 repeats Chapter 8 of IMO                    also stated that the policy letter was                which they are assigned. One submitter
                                                    Resolution MSC.285(86), ‘‘Interim                       silent as to the level of competency that             noted that both the receiving vessel and
                                                    guidelines on safety for natural gas-                   each company must provide for other                   supplier of LNG have PICs but our
                                                    fuelled engine installations in ships,’’                shipboard personnel involved in LNG                   policy letters did not discuss an overall
                                                    which contains both training and                        bunkering operations. In response, the                PIC, and requested to know who the
                                                    operational components. We’ve retained                  Coast Guard has expanded the training                 overall PIC is. The Coast Guard does not
                                                    the operational components from                         section of the policy letter to include               discuss designatation of an overall PIC,
                                                    Enclosure 2 and replaced the training                   recommended training for members of                   because the Coast Guard does not
                                                    components with the product from                        the vessel’s crew who have safety                     believe an overall PIC is necessary.
                                                    STCW.7/Circ.23, ‘‘Interim guidance on                   responsibilities in regard to the gases or            Similar to conventional fuel transfer
                                                    training for seafarers on board ships                   low flashpoint fuels being used and that              operations, no one individual is
                                                    using gases or other low-flashpoint                     documentary evidence such as course                   designated as having overall control and
                                                    fuels’’ as Enclosure (3). STCW.7/Circ.23                completion certificates, company letters,             responsibility for the transfer. Each PIC
                                                    is the current IMO circular which is                    etc., should be issued indicating that the            is responsible for their part of the
                                                    based upon the HTW 1/WP.3, Annex 5                      holder has successfully completed the                 transfer operation (supplier and
                                                    that is being referenced by the                         basic or advanced training, as                        receiver) and each side of the transfer
                                                    submitters. One submitter                               appropriate—See Enclosure 3 of Policy                 should have a means to stop the transfer
                                                    recommended that the Coast Guard                        Letter 01–15. One submitter indicated                 in the event of an emergency (See 33
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                                                    work towards approving training                         that care should be taken to assure that              CFR 127.205 and 155.780). Both
                                                    courses that meet the proposed                          training for personnel on board vessels               supplier and receiver must have a
                                                    requirements of part A (Annex 4) of                     using gas fuels are differentiated from a             means for dedicated voice
                                                    HTW 1/WP.3 and look to begin issuing                    full tankerman (LG endorsement) as                    communication with each other in order
                                                    endorsements as quickly as possible.                    appropriate and that referencing the                  to maintain oversight and control of
                                                    The Coast Guard agrees in principle but                 parts of 46 CFR that are for Tankerman                LNG tanks and transfer lines (See 33
                                                    is unable to approve courses or issue                   should be eliminated. The Coast Guard                 CFR 127.111 and 155.785). Given that
                                                    endorsements until enabling regulations                 agrees that vessel personnel on vessels               personnel on either side of the transfer


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                                                    10134                     Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 37 / Wednesday, February 25, 2015 / Notices

                                                    may not be familiar or experienced with                 include a more definitive statement                   valuable. We have provided a hyperlink
                                                    equipment on the other side, it would                   concerning the need for considering                   in our policy letters recommending that
                                                    be improper to assign one entity as                     simultaneous operations and identifies                owners and operators involved in LNG
                                                    being in charge overall. For this reason,               recommended industry standards which                  transfer operations consider using
                                                    the transfer operation should be an                     may be used by facility owners to                     checklists in order to help globally
                                                    event highly coordinated by both PICs.                  conduct risk assessments. The Coast                   standardize LNG transfer operations.
                                                    One submitter suggested the Coast                       Guard does not wish to specify what                      Five comments were submitted
                                                    Guard add three additional points                       operations may or may not be                          concerning hazard zones, safety
                                                    covering PIC responsibilities—                          conducted simultaneously while LNG                    distances, and transfer areas. One
                                                    ‘‘Establishment of safety zone                          transfer operations are in progress and               submitter questioned whether or not the
                                                    encompassing both supplier and                          the COTP will evaluate each proposal                  transfer area is considered to be a
                                                    receiving vessel,’’ ‘‘Emergency response                on a case-by-case basis based on the                  hazardous area and asserted that no
                                                    personnel defined and readiness,’’ and                  specific hazards involved.                            ignition sources should exist in the
                                                    ‘‘Monitoring of climatic conditions prior                  Three comments were submitted on                   transfer area. The Coast Guard agrees
                                                    to and during transfer operations.’’ The                emergency shutdown devices (ESD).                     and confirms that the transfer area is
                                                    Coast Guard agrees in part and has                      One submitter said all ESD components                 considered to be a hazardous area.
                                                    modified the section in Enclosure (1) of                are to be tested no more than 24 hours                Details concerning removal of ignition
                                                    Policy Letter 01–15 discussing PIC                      before commencement of the actual                     sources associated with LNG supply are
                                                    responsibilities to include checking for                bunkering operation and that the tests                addressed in Policy Letter 02–15 which
                                                    climatic conditions and setting safety                  should be documented in accordance
                                                                                                                                                                  focuses on vessels and facilities
                                                    and security areas around the LNG                       with the bunkering procedure. The
                                                                                                                                                                  providing LNG as fuel. One submitter
                                                    transfer area. Information related to                   Coast Guard agrees. In accordance with
                                                                                                                                                                  noted that we refer to transfer area and
                                                    emergency response is covered in item                   33 CFR 127.315(i), and 156.120(r), the
                                                                                                                                                                  hazardous area, but believed that
                                                    2 of the same section.                                  ESD system is currently required to be
                                                                                                                                                                  consideration on ‘Determination of
                                                       Two comments were submitted on                       tested by the PIC prior to transfer which
                                                                                                                                                                  safety and security zones’ should be
                                                    portable gas detectors. Both expressed a                should be well within the 24 hour
                                                                                                                                                                  given. They also pointed out a key
                                                    belief that it was unnecessary for all                  period suggested. One submitter
                                                                                                                                                                  aspect with regard to the responsibility
                                                    personnel involved in an LNG transfer                   suggested that there could be an
                                                                                                                                                                  of the PIC is to establish the exchange
                                                    to have a portable gas detector and                     exemption for testing bunker tanker ESD
                                                    suggested that the policy letter align                  equipment, provided evidence of                       of sufficient information to allow
                                                    with existing regulations (See 33 CFR                   regular testing is available or alternative           completion of a Declaration of Security
                                                    127.203 and 46 CFR 154.1345) which                      requirements are deemed as an                         (if required), agreement on how and
                                                    require at least 2 portable gas detectors               acceptable equivalence. The Coast                     between whom, communications
                                                    in the marine transfer area. The Coast                  Guard disagrees. As noted previously,                 regarding security that are to be made
                                                    Guard agrees and has modified the                       testing of the ESD system must be                     and actions to be taken in the event of
                                                    policy letters to align with existing                   conducted by the PIC prior to the                     a breach of security. Another submitter
                                                    regulations.                                            transfer as required by existing                      commented that there should be a
                                                       Eight comments were received                         regulations 33 CFR 127.315(i), and                    discussion about hazardous areas and
                                                    concerning simultaneous operations. All                 156.120(r). One submitter suggested that              safety and security areas around the
                                                    but one supported the need to conduct                   automatic activation of the ESD system                LNG transfer area. The Coast Guard
                                                    simultaneous operations. The one                        due to a gas detection alarm should be                agrees and has added a new paragraph
                                                    comment submitted against                               reconsidered noting that gas detection                discussing the items in Enclosure (1) of
                                                    simultaneous operations stated that                     systems have been prone to false alarms,              Policy Letter 01–15. One additional
                                                    simultaneous operations create a                        particularly if located in humid areas,               submitter stated that advice needs to be
                                                    significant risk factor, dramatically                   and repeated shutdowns due to                         given regarding safety distances at
                                                    increasing the likelihood of a casualty                 erroneous alarms could create an                      different transfer rates, due to increasing
                                                    while fueling. The Coast Guard agrees                   unanticipated hazard. The Coast Guard                 ‘‘largest credible spills’’ and that
                                                    that simultaneous operations may                        is unaware of this being a widespread                 dispersion analysis needs to be
                                                    introduce increased risk, but believes                  problem attributed to the performance                 included. The Coast Guard agrees with
                                                    that performance of a risk analysis and                 of all gas detection systems available on             the need to provide additional
                                                    incorporation of risk mitigation                        the market. However, we have amended                  information concerning safety and
                                                    measures can be useful toward                           Policy Letter 01–15, Enclosure (1) such               security areas and has added
                                                    decreasing the likelihood of a casualty                 that gas detection is one of eight items              information in Policy Letter 01–15,
                                                    occurring while fueling. One comment                    that can be considered as a means to                  Enclosure (1) indicating they should be
                                                    stated that simultaneous operations                     activate the ESD system.                              established in accordance with industry
                                                    should not be treated any differently                      Two comments were received on                      standards established by the
                                                    than current fueling operations. One                    checklists. One commenter indicated                   International Organization for
                                                    comment indicated that simultaneous                     that compatibility between the LNG                    Standardization (ISO) which is a
                                                    operations should only be allowed after                 supplier and the vessel receiving LNG                 recognized organization that has
                                                    a detailed risk analysis and dispersion                 must be ensured in terms of LNG                       published information related to
                                                    analysis are completed. Two comments                    transfer system design, operational                   determining the size of safety and
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                                                    indicated the need to have a definitive                 manuals, emergency response                           security areas around LNG transfer
                                                    statement that the Coast Guard                          procedures and a common checklist for                 points. The Coast Guard doesn’t agree
                                                    recognizes the need to allow                            the LNG transfer operation. Another                   with the need to require a declaration of
                                                    simultaneous operations. The Coast                      comment requested that we consider                    security at this time, and notes that
                                                    Guard agrees with the majority of                       adopting a professional industry                      existing regulations concerning the
                                                    commenters and has modified the                         organization’s bunker checklists into                 declaration of inspection (33 CFR
                                                    discussion of simultaneous operations                   our policy letters. The Coast Guard                   127.317, and 33 CFR 156.150) require
                                                    in Policy Letter 01–15, Enclosure (1) to                agrees that the use of checklists is                  PICs to conduct a series of checks before


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                                                                              Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 37 / Wednesday, February 25, 2015 / Notices                                           10135

                                                    transfer operations, including ensuring                 complicate the siting, permitting and                 submitter stated a need to consider
                                                    that communications are operable                        operation of such facilities. The                     emergency procedures for handling of
                                                    between PICs involved in the transfer.                  submitter noted that Part 127 and Part                passengers in the event of an incident
                                                    The Coast Guard agrees that breaches in                 193 contain differing requirements in                 during bunkering. The Coast Guard
                                                    safety and security areas should be                     terms of the location of LNG loading                  agrees and has modified Policy Letter
                                                    evaluated and has included a                            flanges in relation to nearby bridges.                01–15, Enclosure (1) to include a
                                                    recommendation that a contingency                       The Coast Guard understands the                       provision in the emergency manual for
                                                    plan be developed concerning how to                     concerns, but notes that any correction               removing or relocating passengers in the
                                                    handle and respond to them. One                         to these regulations would need to go                 event of an LNG incident during
                                                    submitter stated that consideration                     through the Department of                             bunkering. One commenter suggested
                                                    should be given to include the scope for                Transporation or USCG rulemaking                      that the LNG bunkering and emergency
                                                    interaction of a vessel’s hazardous areas,              process. Therefore, the noted                         response procedures take into account
                                                    emergency response equipment                            discrepancies cannot be rectified                     the LNG bunkering system in place and
                                                    (firefighting, mechanical ventilation,                  through these policy letters.                         that the results of the risk assessment
                                                    etc.) emergency response procedures                        We received one comment concerning                 studies are adequately managed. The
                                                    and linked ESD systems. The Coast                       transfer hoses. The submitter referenced              Coast Guard agrees and has included
                                                    Guard agrees. These items should be                     an early draft version of our policy letter           reference to recognized standards for
                                                    considered as part of the compatability                 suggesting that the transfer hose should              conducting risk assessments which are
                                                    assessment we recommend to be                           include provisions to prevent electrical              identified in Enclosure 1 of Policy Letter
                                                    conducted between suppliers and                         flow during connection or                             01–15 and Enclosures 1 and 2 of Policy
                                                    receivers of LNG. We also recommend                     disconnection of the transfer hose string             Letter 02–15. The risk assessment we
                                                    that emergency response manuals be                      through the hose string or loading arm.               recommend should be based on specific
                                                    developed and provide a list of                         The insertion of one short length of non-             details of the operation intended and
                                                    recommended information they should                     conducting hose without internal                      identify associated risks and hazards
                                                    contain.                                                bonding in each hose string, or                       and the means to mitigate those risks.
                                                       Four comments were submitted                         installation of an insulating flange,                 The risk assessment is expected to be
                                                    concerning pipelines. One comment                       should be addressed. In addition, the                 used as a guide to assist owners and
                                                    suggested that we delete references to                  submitter suggested that each transfer                operators in developing their bunkering
                                                    bonding of pipelines in Policy Letter                   hose string should contain only one                   and emergency response procedures.
                                                    01–14, Enclosure (1) in the section                     electrically discontinuous length of hose             One commenter asked for guidance on
                                                    discussing detailed diagrams of the                     or insulating flange, to prevent                      what security requirements, if any, will
                                                    transfer area. The submitter indicated it               electrostatic build-up in the hose string.            be required for the vessel arriving at the
                                                    was not clear how this would be shown                   The Coast Guard agrees and has                        facility to receive LNG for fuel. If
                                                    on a diagram. The Coast Guard agrees                    amended Policy Letter 02–15, Enclosure                applicable, the security requirements for
                                                    and has removed the item as suggested.                  (2) to include these recommendations.                 vessels may be based on the
                                                    One submitter addressed the discussion                     One comment was received on
                                                                                                                                                                  requirements of 33 CFR part 104—
                                                    on, ‘‘Conduct before a LNG Fuel                         lighting whereby the submitter
                                                                                                                                                                  Maritime Security: Vessels.
                                                    Transfer’’ under Regulations and                        suggested that the intensity levels
                                                                                                                                                                  Additionally, a safety or security zone
                                                    Recommendations for Vessels                             should not be specified. The Coast
                                                                                                                                                                  may be established around a vessel by
                                                    Bunkering LNG, of Enclosure (2) to CG–                  Guard disagrees as the lighting intensity
                                                                                                                                                                  the COTP if it is determined necessary
                                                    OES Policy Letter No. 02–14. The                        levels specified in the policy letters
                                                                                                                                                                  based on the results of a risk
                                                    submitter noted the policy letter states                simply mirror existing federal
                                                                                                            regulations already imposed for transfer              assessment.
                                                    that before transferring LNG to a vessel
                                                    for use of gas as fuel, the PIC for                     operations. See 33 CFR 127.109 and                      Six comments were received
                                                    transferring LNG should inspect the                     155.790.                                              concerning the topic of LNG bunkering.
                                                    accessible portions of the transfer piping                 One comment was submitted                          One commenter suggested that LNG
                                                    system and equipment to be used during                  concerning operations manuals whereby                 bunkering procedures should ensure
                                                    the transfer and ensure that any worn or                the submitter said there should be a                  that unauthorized and non-essential
                                                    inoperable parts are replaced and any                   provision to demonstrate that all                     personnel cannot enter the bunkering
                                                    leaks are identified. The Coast Guard                   relevant personnel are familiar with the              area. The Coast Guard agrees and has
                                                    agrees and has added an item                            operations manual. The Coast Guard                    amended Policy Letter 01–15, Enclosure
                                                    recommending that the transfer piping                   agrees and has modified the opening                   (1) to include a recommendation that
                                                    be tested for leaks prior to the transfer               paragraph discussing operation,                       procedures be established for setting,
                                                    of LNG. Finally, one comment was                        emergency, and maintenance manuals                    securing, and clearing safety and
                                                    received concerning Policy Letter 02–                   in policy letter 01–15, Enclosure (1)                 security areas around the LNG transfer
                                                    14, Enclosure (2) section discussing,                   indicating that the master of a vessel                point. Two commenters recommended
                                                    ‘‘Conduct after a LNG Fuel Transfer.’’                  using LNG as fuel should ensure that all              that the operator define the operational
                                                    The submitter requested adding a                        personnel involved with LNG fuel use,                 envelope under which transfer can take
                                                    requirement to ensure that transfer                     transfer, or emergency response are                   place noting that this should be
                                                    hoses, manifolds, and associated piping                 familiar with the contents of the LNG                 indicated as a ‘‘permissible range of
                                                                                                            fuel transfer system operations manual.               motion where transfer operations can
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                                                    are purged so that natural gas levels are
                                                    below the lower flammability level. The                    We received three comments                         proceed (to be defined for the operation
                                                    Coast Guard has amended the section to                  concerning emergency procedures. One                  as well as the transfer equipment)’’, and
                                                    recommend these types of safety                         commenter stated that simultaneous                    be included in the Operations manual.
                                                    measures.                                               operations imposes the need for more                  The Coast Guard agrees and has
                                                       We received one comment on loading                   requirements, especially where                        amended Policy Letter 01–15, Enclosure
                                                    flanges. The submitter indicated the                    passengers, public or non-qualified/                  (1) recommending that the operations
                                                    existing regulations contain seemingly                  briefed personnel are in proximity of the             manual define the operating envelope
                                                    contradictory provisions which could                    bunkering operation. At a minimum, the                for which safe transfer operations can


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                                                    10136                     Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 37 / Wednesday, February 25, 2015 / Notices

                                                    and cannot occur. One submitter                         of International Maritime Organization                the industry in absence of other sources
                                                    suggested that paragraph 5b. of Policy                  (IMO) standards and guidelines. Policy                or in explaining existing regulatory
                                                    Letter No. 01–14 be modified to impose                  letter 01–15 outlines these operational               requirements. These policy letters
                                                    a mutual obligation on both the                         items in great detail but we have added               provide clarification to industry of
                                                    transferring vessel operator and the                    a recommendation to better align with                 existing requirements and how to apply
                                                    receiving vessel operator to ensure that                IMO guidance noting that procedures                   them in this quickly changing
                                                    both parties have the personnel and                     for confined space entry should be                    environment. These policy letters do not
                                                    equipment to safely conduct LNG                         included in the operations manual. One                impose legally binding requirements
                                                    bunkering operations. The Coast Guard                   submitter provided a list of industry                 and a company can choose not to adopt
                                                    agrees and has added recommended                        standards and guides which the Coast                  the recommendations in the policy
                                                    information related to the declaration of               Guard should consider recognizing. The                letter if it desires. There is no
                                                    inspection which must be signed and                     Coast Guard has provided a hyperlink to               enforcement action associated with
                                                    completed by both persons in charge of                  a free publication provided by the LNG                these recommendations and thus no
                                                    the transfer in accordance with 33 CFR                  Ship Fuel Advisory Group, titled,                     appeal process is necessary. However, it
                                                    156.150 signifying a mutal obligation on                ‘‘Standards and Guidelines for Natural                is important to note that anyone affected
                                                    the part of both parties. One commenter                 Gas Fuelled Ship Projects’’ which                     by a direct decision of an OCMI/COTP
                                                    stated that it is critical to have a                    identifies many of these standards and                can appeal that decision to the District
                                                    common set of regulatory procedures for                 recommends that owners and operators                  Commander as provided for in 46 CFR
                                                    all LNG bunkering operations in all                     become familiar with its contents. This               1.03–20 and 33 CFR 127.015. Finally,
                                                    ports in the United States (as exists                   change can be found in Policy Letter                  the Coast Guard received one comment
                                                    today under 33 CFR part 127 and                         01–15, Enclosure (1), and Policy Letter               requesting clarification on the statement
                                                    elsewhere) which companies could                        02–15, Enclosures (1) and (2) under the               in Policy Letter 01–14 indicating that it
                                                    incorporate into their operational plans                section labeled Job Aides.                            is the responsibility of the operator of
                                                    and crew training. The Coast Guard                         One submitter suggested Policy Letter              the facility and/or the transferring vessel
                                                    agrees that standardized procedures                     01–14, Enclosure (1) not recommend                    to ensure that the receiving vessel has
                                                    help ensure safe transfer operations and                installation of firefighting equipment on             the necessary personnel and equipment
                                                    believes the policy letters will help                   unmanned barges because potential                     to safely and securely participate in the
                                                    establish guidelines for standardized                   operating scenarios of a barge may                    conduct of an LNG transfer operation.
                                                    industry procedures.                                    include operations away from the LNG                  While the regulations in 33 CFR Part
                                                                                                            facility and firefighting capabilities of a           127, Subpart B, indicate the primary
                                                       Eight comments were submitted                        towing vessel during vessel-to-vessel                 responsibility for ensuring appropriate
                                                    concerning referenced standards. The                    operations could be difficult to ensure.              LNG transfer protocols are followed lies
                                                    Coast Guard received one comment                        The Coast Guard disagrees and believes                with the facility operator, the receiving
                                                    pointing out that the reference to                      operators should consider all                         vessel is required by 33 CFR 156.120
                                                    SIGTTO’s LNG Ship to Ship Transfer                      firefighting equipment available in the               and 156.150 to identify a PIC of transfer
                                                    Guidelines, 1st Edition, 2011, was                      vicinity of an LNG transfer operation                 operations on the vessel who will assist
                                                    outdated and should be replaced with                    whether the transfer is off port or at                the PIC of shoreside transfer operations
                                                    SIGTTO’s ‘‘Ship to Ship Transfer                        shore. When conducting a safety                       in conducting the preliminary transfer
                                                    Guide—Petroleum, Chemicals, &                           assessment for a particular operation, all            inspection required and completing the
                                                    Liquefied Gases,’’ 1st Edition, 2013,                   available firefighting equipment and                  declaration of inspections required by
                                                    whenever referenced. The Coast Guard                    emergency response equipment should                   33 CFR 127.317 and 156.150. The
                                                    agrees and has modified the policy                      be considered.                                        qualifications set forth at 33 CFR
                                                    letters as suggested to reflect the                        One comment suggested that due to                  127.301 and 33 CFR 155.710
                                                    updated industry standard. One                          the cryogenic properties of LNG,                      (Qualifications of person in charge) are
                                                    comment requested referencing NFPA                      personal protective equipment should                  good guidance for assigning a PIC.
                                                    59A, the ‘‘Standard for the Production,                 be listed with more specificity,                      Addtionally, this policy sets forth
                                                    Storage, and Handling of Liquefied                      including such items as leather working               recommended personnel training
                                                    Natural Gas’’ and SIGTTO’s ‘‘Liquid Gas                 boots (no canvas sneakers should be                   guidelines for those personnel who will
                                                    Fire Hazard Management’’ in our                         worn during fueling or transfer                       participate in the transfer operation.
                                                    discussion of firefighting equipment in                 operations), loose fitting fire resistant                We received one comment asking for
                                                    Policy Letter 02–14, Enclosure (2). The                 gloves, full face shields, and fit-for                guidance on the topic of roll over. As a
                                                    Coast Guard agrees in part and has                      purpose multi-layer clothing. The Coast               result of this comment, the Coast Guard
                                                    added a reference to the SIGTTO                         Guard agrees and has modified the                     added roll over to the list of items in
                                                    publication, but does not reference                     sections in Policy Letter 01–15,                      Policy Letter 01–15, Enclosure (1) for
                                                    NFPA 59A because the standard refers                    Enclosure (1) and Policy Letter 02–15,                which emergency actions and response
                                                    to shore based LNG storage and                          Enclosure (2) discussing recommended                  measures should be described in the
                                                    production facilities and Enclosure (2)                 personal protective equipment.                        emergency manual.
                                                    of Policy Letter 02–15 is focused on                       The Coast Guard received comments                     One comment suggested that the
                                                    vessels providing LNG as fuel. We                       about how the policy letters will be                  word, ‘‘if used’’ be deleted in enclosure
                                                    received a comment suggesting that we                   enforced. One commenter raised                        (1) to CG–OES Policy Letter No. 01–14,
                                                    add a reference to SIGTTO 2009                          concerns regarding the notice and                     on page 2, under the heading,
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                                                    publication, ‘‘ESD Arrangements &                       comment process of the Administrative                 ‘‘Operations, Emergency, and
                                                    Linked Ship/Shore Systems for                           Procedure Act (APA), 5 U.S.C. 551, et                 Maintenance Manuals,’’ noting that
                                                    Liquefied Gas Carriers’’ in the                         seq., with regard to the guidance                     inert gas must be used to prevent
                                                    discussion of emergency shutdown                        document process and Due Process                      potentially explosive conditions. The
                                                    devices in Enclosure (1) of Policy Letter               concerns of appealing a Coast Guard                   Coast Guard agrees and has amended
                                                    01–14. The Coast Guard agrees and has                   decision. The Coast Guard notes that                  the policy letter as suggested.
                                                    modified the section as requested. Two                  guidance documents are by their nature                   Finally, one comment was submitted
                                                    comments suggested full incorporation                   non-binding as they are created to assist             requesting that the Coast Guard


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                                                                              Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 37 / Wednesday, February 25, 2015 / Notices                                           10137

                                                    elaborate what is meant by the boundary                 reduce the risk of marine casualties and              any personal information you have
                                                    of a facility conducting bunkering. In                  increase the efficiency of vessel traffic             provided.
                                                    response, the Coast Guard provides that                 in the region. The recommendations of
                                                                                                                                                                  Privacy Act
                                                    the boundaries of an LNG facility                       the study may lead to future rulemaking
                                                    handling LNG should be based on the                     action or appropriate international                     Anyone can search the electronic
                                                    requirements for design and spacing in                  agreements.                                           form of comments received into any of
                                                    NFPA 59A as outlined in 33 CFR Part                                                                           our dockets by the name of the
                                                                                                            DATES:  The first meeting will be held in
                                                    127 and any risk or fire safety                                                                               individual submitting the comment (or
                                                                                                            Juneau, Alaska on March 9, 2015 from
                                                    assessments that may be prepared for                                                                          signing the comment, if submitted on
                                                                                                            2 p.m. to 7 p.m. The second meeting
                                                    the specific operation. The boundary of                                                                       behalf of an association, business, labor
                                                                                                            will be held in Anchorage, Alaska on
                                                    each facility conducting bunkering                                                                            union, etc.). You may review a Privacy
                                                                                                            March 30, 2015 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
                                                    should be based on details of the                                                                             Act notice regarding our public dockets
                                                                                                            The third and final meeting will be held
                                                    specific bunkering operation.                                                                                 in the January 17, 2008, issue of the
                                                                                                            in Nome, Alaska on April 2, 2015 from
                                                    Voluntary Policy                                        3 p.m. to 6 p.m.                                      Federal Register (73 FR 3316).
                                                       The Coast Guard’s intent in issuing                  ADDRESSES: Meeting Locations: Juneau                  Requirement for Port Access Route
                                                    these policy letters is to assist the                   Meeting: Elizabeth Peratrovich Event                  Studies
                                                    industry, public, Coast Guard, and other                Center located at 320 W. Wiloughby                       Under the Ports and Waterways Safety
                                                    Federal and State regulators in applying                Ave, Juneau, AK 99801; Anchorage                      Act (PWSA) (33 U.S.C. 1223(c)), the
                                                    existing statutory and regulatory                       Meeting: Hotel Captain Cook located at                Commandant of the Coast Guard may
                                                    requirements. Following the policy and                  939 West 5th Ave., Anchorage, AK                      designate necessary fairways and traffic
                                                    guidance recommended in these policy                    99501; Nome Meeting: City Of Nome                     separation schemes (TSSs) to provide
                                                    letters is voluntary. The policy letters                Council Chambers located at 102                       safe access routes for vessels proceeding
                                                    are not a substitute for applicable legal               Division St, Nome, AK 99762.                          to and from U.S. ports.
                                                    requirements nor are they regulations                      Comment submission: You may
                                                                                                                                                                     Schematic of proposed vessel routing
                                                    themselves. The policy letters, however,                submit comments associated with
                                                                                                                                                                  system: A chart showing the Coast
                                                    do contain references to existing                       docket number USCG–2014–0941 using
                                                                                                                                                                  Guard’s proposed two-way route can be
                                                    requlations which may require certain                   any one of the following methods:
                                                                                                                                                                  downloaded from http://
                                                    action where applicable. The Coast                         (1) Federal eRulemaking Portal:                    www.regulations.gov, type ‘‘USCG–
                                                    Guard notes those instances where it                    http://www.regulations.gov.                           2014–0941’’ into the search bar and
                                                    discusses requirements under existing                      (2) Fax: 202–493–2251.                             click search, next to the displayed
                                                    regulations instead of policy or                           (3) Mail: Docket Management Facility               search results click ‘‘Open Docket
                                                    guidance. Nothing in the policy letters                 (M–30), U.S. Department of                            Folder’’, which will display all
                                                    and guidance they contain are meant to                  Transportation, West Building Ground                  comments and documents associated
                                                    override or subvert the discretion of the               Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey                  with this docket.
                                                    COTP when addressing the unique                         Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590–
                                                    safety and security concerns of an LNG                  0001.                                                 Information on Service for Individuals
                                                    operation.                                                 (4) Hand delivery: Same as mail                    With Disabilities
                                                       This notice is issued under authority                address above, between 9 a.m. and 5
                                                    of 5 U.S.C. 552(a).                                                                                             For information on facilities or
                                                                                                            p.m., Monday through Friday, except                   services for individuals with disabilities
                                                      Dated: February 19, 2015.                             Federal holidays. The telephone number                or to request special assistance at the
                                                    J.G. Lantz,                                             is 202–366–9329.                                      public meeting, contact LT Kody Stitz at
                                                    Director of Commercial Regulations and                     To avoid duplication, please use only              the telephone number or email address
                                                    Standards, U.S. Coast Guard.                            one of these four methods.                            provided under the FOR FURTHER
                                                    [FR Doc. 2015–03852 Filed 2–24–15; 8:45 am]             FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If                   INFORMATION CONTACT section of this
                                                    BILLING CODE 9110–04–P                                  you have questions on this notice of                  document.
                                                                                                            study or any of the meetings, call or
                                                                                                            email LT Kody Stitz, Seventeenth Coast                Meeting Details
                                                    DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND                                  Guard District (dpw); telephone (907)                    All meetings are open to the public.
                                                    SECURITY                                                463–2270; email Kody.J.Stitz@uscg.mil                 The purpose of the meetings is to
                                                                                                            or Mr. David Seris, Seventeenth Coast                 increase awareness of the PARS and to
                                                    Coast Guard                                             Guard District (dpw); telephone (907)                 receive feedback and comments from
                                                    [USCG–2014–0941]                                        463–2267; email David.M.Seris@                        the public regarding the PARS. Each
                                                                                                            uscg.mil. If you have questions on                    meeting will begin with the Coast Guard
                                                    Port Access Route Study: In the                         viewing or submitting material to the                 meeting facilitator presenting an
                                                    Chukchi Sea, Bering Strait and Bering                   docket, call Cheryl F. Collins, Program               explanation of and the purpose for the
                                                    Sea                                                     Manager, Docket Operations, telephone                 PARS along with an overview of the
                                                    AGENCY:   Coast Guard, DHS.                             202–366–9826.                                         Coast Guard’s proposed two-way route
                                                    ACTION:   Notice of public meeting.                     SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                            through the region. Public participants
                                                                                                                                                                  will then be able to provide comments
asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES




                                                    SUMMARY:     The Coast Guard announces                  Public Participation and Request for                  and feedback to the meeting facilitator.
                                                    three public meetings to receive                        Comments                                              Public participants are not required to
                                                    comments on a port access route study                     We encourage you to participate in                  stay for the entire meeting duration as
                                                    (PARS) published in the Federal                         this study by submitting comments and                 the process of the meeting facilitator
                                                    Register on December 5, 2014, under the                 related materials as well as attending a              presenting the PARS information
                                                    title ‘‘Port Access Route Study: In the                 public meeting. All comments received                 followed by a public comment period
                                                    Chukchi Sea, Bering Strait and Bering                   will be posted without change to http://              will be repeated hourly throughout the
                                                    Sea.’’ The goal of this study is to help                www.regulations.gov and will include                  allotted meeting time.


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Document Created: 2015-12-18 13:09:13
Document Modified: 2015-12-18 13:09:13
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionNotices
ActionNotice of availability.
ContactIf you have questions on this notice, call or email Ken Smith, Vessel and Facility Operating Standards Division (CG-OES-2), U.S. Coast Guard; telephone 202-372-1413, email [email protected] If you have questions on viewing or submitting material to the docket, call Cheryl Collins, Program Manager, Docket Operations, telephone 202-366-9826.
FR Citation80 FR 10131 

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