The Queensland Government has unveiled a draft safety code of practice, as it prepares the state’s workforce for emerging jobs in the green hydrogen industry.
Current safety requirements are tailored for traditional products natural gas and do not specifically target hydrogen fuel applications. The draft code will aim to deliver a framework which outlines minimum safety requirements.
This follows the State Government’s commitment to developing green hydrogen markets in the region. The Queensland Government signed a tri-state collaboration (VIC, NSW and QLD) on a renewable hydrogen refuelling network for heavy transport and logistics along Australia’s eastern seaboard in March.
The Hume Hydrogen Highway (HHH) program will support the development of hydrogen refuelling stations, starting with the Hume Highway, the Pacific Highway and the Newell Highway.
The State Government has also backed green hydrogen through its $2 billion Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Jobs Fund with projects across Queensland, securing the world’s largest electrolyser manufacturing plant in Gladstone and fuel cell manufacturing in Springfield.
Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen, Mick de Brenni said the health of green hydrogen workers would be a priority.
“Green hydrogen is key to diversifying our energy sector and growing more jobs in more industries, so ensuring the safety of workers and the public is paramount,” de Brenni said.
Resources Safety and Health Queensland has consulted with industry and business to develop the draft code which is now open for consultation.
Once the feedback is considered, the policy approach and relevant legislative amendments will be finalised later in 2022. It will be routinely reviewed and revised as new standards, competencies and applications are developed.
Minister for Resources Scott Stewart said its important to get feedback from a range of stakeholders during the consultation period.
“Green hydrogen is an emerging industry which will create new jobs throughout regional Queensland which is why it’s important the right safety guidelines are in place,” Stewart said.
“I encourage peak bodies, other state regulators, hydrogen companies and businesses that are planning a hydrogen project to step forward and provide input.”
To view the draft document, click here.
Related stories:
- Australian-first renewable hydrogen highway to link eastern states
- Green hydrogen to drive heavy transport in QLD
- Hydrogen-powered trains on the card for Queensland