The liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry has an excellent safety record. This is due in large part to the combination of industry practice and regulations that are in place to prevent incidents from ...occurring and to reduce or mitigate the impacts of incidents if they occur. For decades, the LNG industry has also maintained secure operations around the world, including in areas where terrorism is a concern. Even so, the safe and environmentally sound operation of the LNG facilities, both ships and terminals, is a concern and responsibility shared by operators. Hazards in handling LNG and natural gas do exist and it is important not to understate or exaggerate them. This chapter explores hazards associated with and safety features designed for the unusual characteristics of LNG. Also summarized here are regulations governing LNG and a wide framework of various risk assessment methods applicable to LNG shipping and export/import terminals, both onshore and offshore. A compilation is included of accident frequencies for LNG carriers per ship year. Examples are provided of risk analysis for specific ports. Innovative applications of risk analysis are treated, along with current research findings. This chapter also discusses the growing concerns over LNG infrastructure security, some factors associated with security, and recent initiatives undertaken to analyze and improve security.
