Connecting With the Industry to Advance the Safe Use of Hydrogen Technology

As the use of hydrogen technology continues to evolve and grow, the International Code Council is collaborating with partners and stakeholders around the world to ensure that we are all moving forward safely.  

Over the past year, the Code Council has participated in several key events that have helped connect and educate those who have been charged with leading the way. Here are a few examples of our commitment to advancing hydrogen safety.

2024 DOE Hydrogen Annual Merit Review

The Code Council’s participation at the 2024 Department Of Energy’s (DOE) Hydrogen Annual Merit Review and Peer Evaluation Meeting for DOE-funded projects highlights our integral role in evaluating and shaping the future of hydrogen technology.

This event provided a platform for the Code Council to network with researchers, industry experts and policymakers, discussing the merits and findings of funded hydrogen projects.

Our involvement in these discussions emphasizes the importance of safety standards and the critical role they play in the development and implementation of hydrogen technologies. Read more about hydrogen fuel generation, distribution and usage here. 

2024 Center for Hydrogen Safety’s Americas Conference

At the 2024 Center for Hydrogen Safety’s Americas Conference, the Code Council participated as a vendor, engaging with attendees, and highlighting the symmetry between the International Codes® (I-Codes) and the hydrogen standards referenced within them.

Our presence at this event facilitated meaningful exchanges on best practices and the latest developments in hydrogen safety, reinforcing the Code Council’s position as a key influencer and advocate for safety in the industry.

Hydrogen Americas Summit & Exhibition

The Code Council played a significant role as a presenter and panelist at the Hydrogen Americas Summit and Exhibition. Our discussions focused on safety culture and the pivotal role of codes and standards in the expanding hydrogen industry. This event offered a platform to highlight how comprehensive safety protocols are integral to the successful scaling and adoption of hydrogen technologies. 

Preparing the Workforce for Hydrogen Safety

In addition to our efforts in shaping hydrogen safety standards, the Code Council is committed to addressing the need for skilled labor in this rapidly evolving field.

The Code Council, along with the Center for Hydrogen Safety, recently filed a project initiation (or PINS) with ANSI for a new professional qualification standard series (ICC/CHS 1700)   for design professionals, plans examiners, installers, inspectors, auditors, maintenance personnel and training instructors. These standards are crucial for ensuring that the workforce is adequately trained and qualified to handle the complexities and safety requirements of hydrogen projects.

The Code Council’s leadership in hydrogen safety is further evidenced by our  Center for Hydrogen Safety membership and active participation in the development of hydrogen standards referenced in the I-Codes. These collaborations aim to address the new end uses of hydrogen and the introduction of larger equipment and advanced technologies in the field. By contributing to these standards, the Code Council ensures that safety considerations are at the forefront of industry advancements.

As the hydrogen industry continues to evolve, the Code Council  remains steadfast in its advocacy for the continued development and education of safety standards and best practices. Our participation in key industry events, along with our contributions to standards development, underscores our commitment to a safe and sustainable future for hydrogen technology. Read more about advancements in the hydrogen industry here.

Through ongoing collaboration and thought leadership, the Code Council is dedicated to ensuring that the codes and standards that pertain to hydrogen use in the built environment, such as the International Building Code®, International Fuel Gas Code® and International Fire Code®,  keep pace with the rapid advancements in hydrogen technology, fostering a secure and innovative environment for the global hydrogen industry.

You can learn more about hydrogen use and get industry updates by visiting our hydrogen resource center, here.