Safety of hydrogen vehicles in car parks
The parking of hydrogen powered vehicles also raises safety issues. The Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management has asked IFV (*) to conduct research on the safety aspects of hydrogen cars in car parks.
The objective is to better understand the safety impact of hydrogen powered vehicles in car parks. Based on the literature, it was possible to establish
- how hydrogen could leak from vehicles
- the consequences to be considered,
- the relevant circumstances and
- the probability of hydrogen release and ignition.
The study clearly demonstrates the potential risks of hydrogen leaks that could generate flares or cause an explosion.
The probability and consequences of such a leak in a car park, i.e. in a closed environment, seem greater than on the road. On the other hand, the risk of a leakage caused by a violent collision is lower because of the low speed at which cars travel in car parks.
(*) Instituut Fysieke Veiligheid
According to the IFV press release of 15/02/2021
More information on https://www.ifv.nl/nieuws/Paginas/Veiligheidsaspecten-van-waterstofautos-in-parkeergarages.aspx
