Safety aspects of a widespread hydrogen energy economy

Profitability constraints on safety considerations in a widespread hydrogen energy economy are discussed. Hydrogen uses and possible human contact are examined with attention to the ignition and combustion characteristics of hydrogen. Three approaches to safety are urged - education, improvement of safety procedures, and passive means. For example, people should learn about the flammability of hydrogen, the need for ventilation and catalytic burning of leaked hydrogen, and the necessity of avoiding hydrogen storage areas. Technological improvements would involve hydrogen and hydrogen flame detectors for household use, methods of removing large amounts of uncombusted hydrogen in densely populated areas, and methods of gas/particle addition and extraction.