Fuel cells are an important enabling technology for the hydrogen economy and have the potential to revolutionize the way
we power our nation, offering cleaner, more-efficient alternatives to the combustion of gasoline and other fossil fuels. Fuel
cells have the potential to replace the internal combustion engine in vehicles and provide power in stationary and portable
power applications because they are energy-efficient, clean, and fuel-flexible. Hydrogen or any hydrogen-rich fuel can be
used by this emerging technology
Current Approaches to Safety, Codes and Standards
Current approaches to hydrogen and fuel cells safety, codes and standards are based on existing practices, guidelines,
and codes and standards developed as a result of hydrogen's use in the chemical and aerospace industries.
While some codes and standards for hydrogen and hydrogen-related systems are already available, in many cases they do not
fully address the new issues that arise when considering the needs of a future hydrogen economy. ASF is coordinating
the efforts of codes and standards organizations to identify and address the gaps, clarify and consolidate regulations, validate
outdated test results, and ultimately develop new, more appropriate codes and standards that will ensure the safe use of hydrogen
in the future
