ISO 16924:2026

Overview

ISO 16924:2026 sets out comprehensive requirements for the design, construction, operation, maintenance, and inspection of liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuelling stations intended for road vehicles. This international standard also addresses stations that use LNG as an onsite source to supply compressed natural gas (CNG) to vehicles, known as liquefied-to-compressed natural gas (LCNG) fuelling stations. The standard covers all critical equipment and safety requirements from the LNG storage tank unloading connection up to, but not including, the vehicle fuelling nozzle. It applies to a range of station configurations, including private and public access, fixed and mobile LNG storage, movable stations, and multi-fuel stations.

By specifying best practices and mandatory safety measures, ISO 16924:2026 promotes the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible delivery of LNG and LCNG to road vehicles. This is essential for supporting the global adoption of natural gas vehicles (NGVs) and helping stakeholders meet regulatory and market expectations.

Key Topics

ISO 16924:2026 encompasses a wide scope of requirements and recommendations, including:

• Design and Construction: Guidance for site layout, separation distances, civil works, environmental considerations such as noise and gas venting, and installation of equipment.
• Safety and Risk Management: Risk assessment procedures, fire protection measures, emergency shut-down (ESD) systems, equipment compatibility, and personnel safety protocols.
• Operational Procedures: Receiving and handling LNG deliveries, tanker unloading, fuelling procedures, signage, safety labeling, and training requirements.
• Equipment Specifications: Detailed requirements for LNG and LCNG dispensers, storage vessels, pumps, compressors, vaporizers, heaters, pipework, and electrical systems.
• Testing and Commissioning: Methods for electrical and pressure testing, leak testing, purging, functional testing, and first filling of storage tanks.
• Inspection and Maintenance: Regular inspection protocols, preventive and corrective maintenance planning, and guidelines for the maintenance of safety systems.

Applications

This standard is relevant to a variety of practical applications in the growing market for natural gas-driven transportation:

• Fuel Retailers and Station Operators: Ensuring LNG and LCNG fuelling station projects comply with internationally recognized safety, performance, and environmental standards.
• Design and Engineering Firms: Applying consistent criteria during the planning, engineering, and installation phases of station projects, for both new builds and retrofits.
• Fleet Operators and Logistics Companies: Supporting safe and reliable refuelling infrastructure for heavy-duty vehicles and commercial fleets using LNG or LCNG as alternative fuels.
• Regulators and Inspectors: Establishing a recognized reference for auditing compliance and promoting public safety in the deployment of natural gas fuelling infrastructure.
• Equipment Manufacturers: Aligning product designs with stringent international requirements for pumps, tanks, dispensers, and control systems.

Related Standards

For effective implementation and compatibility, ISO 16924:2026 should be used in conjunction with related standards, including:

• ISO 16923: Natural gas fuelling stations - CNG stations for fuelling vehicles (specific CNG equipment)
• ISO 13686: Natural gas - Quality designation (gas composition and quality requirements)
• Additional relevant ISO and national regulations covering LNG transport, storage, and handling

Summary

ISO 16924:2026 delivers a robust framework for safe, efficient, and compliant development and operation of LNG and LCNG fuelling stations serving road vehicles. By following its requirements, stakeholders in the natural gas vehicle sector can foster operational excellence, meet safety and environmental obligations, and support wider adoption of clean fuel technologies. This international standard is an essential resource for anyone involved in the design, construction, regulation, or operation of natural gas fuelling infrastructure.