State policy targets on greenhouse gas emission reductions and other decarbonization initiatives are creating a movement toward low or zero-carbon gases and fuels. Given its versatility as an energy carrier and its potential for use in a broad range of applications, hydrogen is gaining in popularity, and natural gas providers are looking at integrating it into their networks.

Safe practices in the production, storage, distribution, and use of hydrogen are essential for the widespread acceptance of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies. A catastrophic failure in any hydrogen project could damage public perception of hydrogen and fuel cells. Given the nascent nature of the mobile hydrogen applications, incidents involving mobile equipment can have detrimental impacts for the public as well as stakeholders and project proponents who are committed to hydrogen’s use as a safe alternative energy resource. 

This document and its companion document, Safety Standard for Oxygen and Oxygen Systems (NSS1740.151996),are identified as Tier 2 Standards and Technical Requirements in the NASA Safety and Documentation Tree (NHB 1700.1 1993). The information presented is intended as a reference to hydrogen design and practice and not as an authorizing document. The words "shall" and "must" are used in this document to indicate a mandatory requirement, and the authority for the requirement is given.