Since the first tanker brought LNG from Algeria to the UK in 1964, the LNG industry has maintained a solid safety record. Import terminals themselves have had no major incidents for 25 years and LNG shipping has never had a major incident. LNG is as safe as other common energy sources. In general, the physical and chemical characteristics of LNG make it safer than is generally perceived by the public. LNG itself is not flammable or explosive. When warmed into its gaseous state, it is only flammable when mixed with air in concentration of 5-15%. In fact, according to a report by the National Petroleum Council, “because of the emphasis on safety, since 1944 there has not been an accident involving LNG that has affected a member of the public anywhere in the world. The overall incident rate for LNG facilities is also lower than other industrial operations. The industry has made more than 40,000 LNG voyages covering more than 60 million miles without major accidents or safety issues in port or on the high seas. Terminals have also had no major reported incidents for almost 25 years.” Regulations and standards regarding LNG in the United States are set forth at all levels, from the city council to the United Nations. Although incidents such as earthquakes and terror attacks are possible, they have been mitigated against by these stringent standards, which dictate how LNG facilities should be built, protected, operated and maintained – all in the name of safety. For more information, please visit the following sites: Natural Gas and the Environment
LNG Import Terminals: Siting, Safety and Regulation