Shipping Industry Tightens Security to Prevent Coal Fires on Vessels
Shipping Industry Tightens Security to Prevent Coal Fires on Vessels
The maritime industry is strengthening its security protocols ahead of mandatory regulations set to take effect in 2026 by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), aimed at reducing fire risks in coal transportation. This initiative follows a rise in vessel fires caused by misdeclared or improperly packaged hazardous cargo. In particular, World Shipping Council (WSC) President and CEO Joe Kramek stated, "We have witnessed numerous preventable fires aboard vessels due to misdeclared coal. These fires endanger crew members and cargo, leading to tragic consequences."
According to the Allianz Safety and Shipping Review 2023 report, 64 fire incidents were reported on container ships over the past five years, with vessel fires in 2022 showing a rise of more than 17% compared to the previous year. One of the primary causes of these fires is the misdeclaration or non-declaration of hazardous cargo, as well as improper packaging by shippers. Despite existing regulations, the misdeclaration or non-declaration of dangerous goods in transport increases the risk of vessel fires and complicates fire-fighting efforts.
Under the new regulations, all coal shipments will be classified as dangerous substances under the framework of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code. The World Shipping Council, in collaboration with IGP&I and TT Club, has developed comprehensive guidelines to assist shippers during this transition period. Key safety measures include mandatory temperature controls such as ensuring coal does not exceed 40°C on the day of packaging and maintaining a 30 cm clearance between the cargo and container ceiling. Additionally, previous exemptions have been removed, a new Special Provision 978 has been introduced, and detailed documentation has become mandatory for all shipments.
Kramek emphasized, "Treating all coal as dangerous goods provides uniform safety standards and ensures that everyone from shippers to carriers has the tools and clarity necessary to prevent future tragedies."
Industry stakeholders are being urged to take immediate action to ensure compliance, with requirements including mandatory IMDG Code training for land-based personnel and adherence to the IMO/ILO/UNECE Code of Practice for cargo transport units.
Key Takeaways:
The maritime industry is tightening security protocols to reduce fire risks in coal transportation.
According to the Allianz Safety and Shipping Review 2023 report, 64 fire incidents were reported on container ships over the past five years.
Under new regulations, all coal shipments will be classified as dangerous substances under the IMDG Code framework.
The World Shipping Council, in collaboration with IGP&I and TT Club, has developed guidelines to assist shippers.
Key safety measures include ensuring coal does not exceed 40°C on the day of packaging and maintaining a 30 cm clearance between cargo and container ceiling.
Industry stakeholders are urged to take immediate action to ensure compliance.
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