European hydrogen train the trainer framework for responders: Outcomes of the HyResponder project

HyResponder is a European Hydrogen Train the Trainer programme for responders. This paper describes the key outputs of the project and the steps taken to develop and implement a long-term sustainable train the trainer programme in hydrogen safety for responders across Europe and beyond. This FCH2 JU (now Clean Hydrogen Joint Undertaking) funded project has built on the successful outcomes of the previous HyResponse project. HyResponder has developed further and updated educational, operational, and virtual reality training for trainers of responders to reflect the state-of-the-art in hydrogen safety, including liquid hydrogen, and expand the programme across Europe and specifically within the 10 countries represented directly within the project consortium: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. For the first time, four levels of educational materials from fire fighter through to specialist have been developed. The digital training resources are available on the e-Platform (https://hyresponder.eu/eplatform/). The revised European Emergency Response Guide is now available to all stakeholders. The resources are intended to be used to support national training programs. They are available in 8 languages: Czech, Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Norwegian and Spanish. Through the HyResponder activities, trainers from across Europe have undertaken joint actions which are in turn being used to inform the delivery of regional and national training both within and beyond the project. The established pan-European network of trainers is shaping the future in the important for inherently safer deployment of hydrogen systems and infrastructure across Europe and enhancing the reach and impact of the programme.