TTP Publishes New Hydrogen Vehicle Incident Response Resource to Enhance Driver and Emergency Responder Safety

Washington, DC – The Transport Project (TTP) today released an important safety resource for inclusion in commercial vehicles fueled by compressed hydrogen (CH₂). The downloadable two-sided safety guide contains detailed “Vehicle Crash and/or Leak Response” instructions on one side with “Vehicle Thermal Response” instructions on the reverse.

The card is meant to be digitally downloaded and/or physically provided in CH₂ vehicle cabs for quick reference use during traffic accidents or vehicle fires. Both sides include seven basic steps with graphics and concise language for vehicle drivers to follow to advance the safest possible incident outcome; once emergency services arrive, the card can be shared with first responders.

“TTP’s Technology and Development Committee produced this resource to reduce risk for drivers and improve emergency response outcomes in the immediate aftermath of vehicle collisions or thermal events involving fuel-cell-electric trucks and buses or any heavy-duty vehicle powered by a hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engine,” said Paul Sandsted, The Transport Project’s Director of Technology and Sustainability. “This card is meant to provide clear, easy-to-read reminder guidance on the most critical steps to undertake during such events when stress levels are likely elevated.”

The resource was developed by TTP’s Technology and Development Committee in consultation with CH₂ vehicle experts, fuel system providers, emergency response professionals, and stakeholder partner associations including the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association (FCHEA) and Center for Hydrogen Safety (CHS). Access the downloadable resource HERE.

“As hydrogen-powered trucks and buses continue to enter commercial service, practical safety resources like these are important for helping drivers and first responders recognize hydrogen-specific considerations and respond appropriately during an incident. FCHEA was pleased to support The Transport Project’s development of this resource and appreciates its focus on providing clear, accessible instructions that can be readily available in the vehicle when they are needed most.” Frank Wolak, President and CEO of the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association (FCHEA).

“These cards turn hydrogen safety knowledge into practical, at-a-glance guidance for the people making decisions during the critical first minutes of an incident. By helping emergency responders understand hydrogen’s unique behavior and take informed action, this resource strengthens preparedness, supports safer response, and builds confidence in communities where hydrogen technologies are being deployed.” Nick Barilo, Executive Director, Center for Hydrogen Safety

Additional first responder resources
The Transport Project and its member companies also advance first responder safety through regional training sessions and promotion of a variety of training services and materials for incident first responders:

Alternative Fuel Vehicle Institute (AFVi) offers an online training course that provides the essential information on CH₂ vehicles, fuel system operation, and safety factors for vehicle personnel and emergency responders to be familiar with.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers Alternative Fuel Vehicle Training for fire professionals.
The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC) offers Firefighter Alternative Fuel Vehicle Safety Training.
Kenworth’s Class-8 FCEV First Responders Guide.

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The Transport Project is a national coalition of roughly 200 fleets, vehicle and engine manufacturers and dealers, servicers and suppliers, and fuel producers and providers dedicated to the decarbonization of North America’s transportation sector. Through the increased use of gaseous motor fuels including renewable natural gas and hydrogen, the United States and Canada can help achieve ambitious climate goals and greatly improve air quality safely, reliably, and effectively without delay and without compromising existing commercial business operations.