PNNL

Nick Barilo, Hydrogen Safety Program Manager at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), was recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Office for outstanding contributions to the hydrogen community.

Barilo and collaborator Darlene Schuster of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, or AIChE, were lauded for establishing the Center for Hydrogen Safety (CHS), a global nonprofit membership organization dedicated to promoting the safe handling and use of hydrogen across industrial and consumer applications.

Formed under their leadership through a memorandum of understanding between PNNL and AIChE, the CHS continues to exceed its membership goals as it unites industry leaders and the international community of stakeholders dedicated to the safe and timely transition to hydrogen fuel cells.

Barilo serves as Director of the CHS, where he facilitates access to hydrogen safety experts; develops comprehensive safety guidance, outreach, and education materials; and provides a platform for partnership on worldwide technical solutions.

“I’m honored that DOE has recognized my service to the hydrogen community,” said Barilo. “PNNL has been recognized since 2003 for providing industry, first responders, and stakeholders with impactful hydrogen safety resources in support of the safe transition to fuel cell technology.”

He adds, “It truly is amazing to watch how the resources incubated at PNNL have led to the development of an international community whose vision is to transform the energy landscape to a more sustainable fuel source.”

In addition to the CHS, Barilo guides and directs activities for the esteemed U.S. Hydrogen Safety Panel. He has authored numerous papers and journal articles, and he is regularly sought out to speak as a global expert on hydrogen safety.