The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) has released new guidelines aimed at helping shipping companies develop new Safety Management Systems (SMS) and strengthen existing ones for vessels operating on methanol fuel, as the methanol-fueled fleet continues to grow.
The guidance comes as the maritime industry steps up its decarbonisation efforts and methanol gains traction as one of the most viable low-carbon marine fuels. Its ability to remain liquid at ambient temperatures, compatibility with existing fuel infrastructure and growing adoption across the sector have positioned methanol as a leading alternative fuel for the near term.
Despite these advantages, methanol presents a distinct set of safety risks, including toxicity, a low flashpoint, and nearly invisible vapours and flames. These characteristics require robust operational procedures and enhanced risk management measures to ensure its safe use at sea.
Developed jointly by MTF members and industry experts with experience in methanol fuel technologies and the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, the new guidance sets out practical recommendations for designing and improving Safety Management Systems for methanol-fuelled ships.
Methanol (CH3OH) has emerged as a particularly attractive option due to its environmental credentials and practical advantages. It is a well-established fuel that ship operators can already deploy today to reduce pollutant emissions and support the transition towards carbon neutrality. Methanol engines, fuel supply systems and bunkering solutions are already commercially available; and uptake within the shipping industry is growing. In 2025, 66 methanol dual-fuel ships were ordered, with reports of up to 822 methanol-ready ships in the pipeline.
Proposed guidelines can be used to develop new or strengthen existing SMS
Companies can utilise these guidelines to develop new SMS and/or strengthen their existing SMS covering methanol as fuel onboard their fleet. MTF recommends that these guidelines may be used in addition to other similar existing and/or upcoming guidelines to ensure safe operations when using methanol fuel onboard ships.
Download the guidelines: MTF 2026: Guidelines for ships using methanol as fuel