Permitting process / requirements

This LAP refers to the permitting process and requirements for on one hand the drivers/transporting company and on the other hand the equipment (trailer). It defines what certification is needed for a driver/transporting company to transport hydrogen on public roads and which authority is competent to deliver the certification. It also gives information about the requirements needed for an equipment to be allowed to transport hydrogen on public roads, and if there is any specific approval required for the equipment.

The Permitting process is a process in which an applicant files forms to a (regulatory) agency/competent authority with required narratives, maps, etc., to ensure in advance that the proposed operation will be in compliance with the applicable standards. Permitting requirements are the legal (regulations and standards) requirements.
An internal safety distance is the minimal separation distance between a potential hazard source (e.g. equipment involving dangerous substances) and an object (human, equipment or environment), which will mitigate the effect of a likely foreseeable incident and prevent a minor incident escalating into a larger incident (also known as domino effect).

The permitting process and requirements for the drivers/transporting company and the equipment (trailer) are well harmonized in Europe, because all countries follow the ADR regulation. As restrictions applied to hydrogen are the same as for any other flammable gas, most of the countries don’t see this LAP as a barrier