Abstract
Abstract Hydrogen is recognized as a promising alternative energy carrier of foreseeable future. However, hydrogen systems are complex socio-technical systems (STS) that are susceptible to emerging risks which have not been extensively studied. The event sequence within STS can be non-liner and emergent, rendering traditional safety barriers potentially ineffective. Traditional safety barriers are plunged within the safety-I approach and focus on what can go wrong. However, from an STS perspective, since the system can adapt and emerge, the analysis should consider the entire system and not only its failures. In addition to the emphasis on safety-II and resilience engineering on process safety, it is imperative to extend this holistic understanding to safety barriers. Indeed, this study aims to introduce socio-technical safety barriers for hydrogen systems through the analysis of a hydrogen jet fire experiment. This will help to address the emergent and adaptive characteristics of STS. Furthermore, it will enhance the resilience and safety of hydrogen systems in the face of emerging risks.