CROSS and CHIRP issue alert on bridge strikes by large vessels

by ConstructionFeatured NewsPorts & Maritime

Safety alert issued on bridge strikes by large vessels: CROSS and CHIRP

CROSS and CHIRP have issued a joint Safety Alert following the March 2024 collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

The alert provides recommendations to mitigate the risks of large vessels striking bridges.

The alert highlights guidance for bridge designers, port authorities, and vessel operators.

It addresses how risks have evolved due to changes in maritime transport and climate.

While the probability of bridge strikes remains low, the consequences can include fatalities, infrastructure collapse, economic losses, and environmental damage.

Historical examples of bridge strikes

The alert outlines significant historical bridge strikes.

Between 1960 and 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses globally, resulting in 342 deaths.

Examples include the Sunshine Skyway Bridge collapse in Florida in 1980 and the River Volga disaster in Russia in 1983, where 172 people lost their lives.

Recent incidents include the January 2024 damage to the Pont de Sully Bridge in Paris and the March 2024 Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse.

These incidents demonstrate the ongoing risks posed by evolving vessel sizes and environmental changes.

Bridge vulnerabilities and design considerations

Bridge vulnerabilities depend on structural design and maritime conditions.

Risks include superstructure impacts from increasing vessel sizes and substructure damage during collisions.

The alert recommends periodic risk assessments and integrating protective features such as sacrificial structures or impact-absorbing islands.

Guidance from standards like the Eurocodes and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) emphasises updating risk assessments and design approaches to align with evolving maritime challenges.

Recommendations for risk mitigation

The alert provides detailed recommendations for key stakeholders.

Bridge designers should conduct risk analyses, consider climate impacts, and implement protective measures.

Owners and operators are urged to perform regular risk reviews and liaise with port authorities.

Ship operators should ensure vessel maintenance and conduct scenario planning.

Port authorities are advised to adapt to changing vessel sizes and implement traffic management strategies to prevent collisions.

Autonomous ships and predictive technologies are highlighted as emerging tools for safety management.

CROSS and CHIRP issue alert on bridge strikes by large vessels: Summary

CROSS and CHIRP have issued a safety alert focusing on the risks of large vessels colliding with bridges, following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore in March 2024.

Historical examples highlight the severe consequences of such events, including fatalities and infrastructure damage.

The alert recommends periodic risk assessments, updated design standards, and implementing protective features to mitigate risks.

Guidance is provided for bridge designers, owners, and ship operators, with a focus on adapting to evolving maritime challenges and ensuring collaborative planning.

Milford Haven Port Authority pilots Zelim SWIFT system to boost UK maritime safety

by Ports & MaritimeSearch and Rescue

Zelim’s SWIFT man-overboard recovery system trialled on pilot vessel

The Milford Haven Port Authority (MHPA) in Pembrokeshire, Wales, has fitted Zelim’s SWIFT man-overboard recovery conveyor to a 19-metre pilot vessel as part of a three-month trial.

This trial aims to evaluate the system’s capability in challenging sea conditions, a critical factor given the Port’s regular exposure to Atlantic swells.

According to Zelim, SWIFT was installed on the 2009-built Picton following a successful demonstration on the River Forth, Scotland, where “casualties” were swiftly retrieved within one minute.

Andy Tipping, Zelim’s Business Development Director, explained the MHPA’s intentions: “Demonstrations last year were a huge success, but the MHPA wanted to retrofit SWIFT to an operational vessel to validate its capability in heavy weather before making any procurement decisions.”

High sea testing results show positive outcomes

Initial testing results have shown SWIFT’s performance meets expectations even in 2.5-metre swells, some of the highest sea states encountered so far.

Tipping noted: “Picton has already trialled SWIFT in 2.5m swells, which is the most challenging sea condition we have encountered to date.

“It’s taken SWIFT to a new level, but it still performed very, very well, as we knew it would.”

These results reinforce the potential of SWIFT for applications in hazardous sea environments where pilot safety is crucial.

John Warneford, Assistant Harbourmaster at MHPA, highlighted the benefits of these trials: “These trials allow us to better understand how the technology can improve operational safety for our crews and pilots, but it also supports the rapid recovery of any person in the water.”

Potential integration into new pilot boats under construction

If the SWIFT system meets performance standards in this trial, MHPA may integrate it into a series of 22-metre pilot vessels currently being built.

The vessels, produced by Netherlands-based Next Generation Shipyards, are set for delivery next year.

This integration could enhance safety features for MHPA’s fleet operating in high-risk maritime conditions, particularly during pilot transfers, a task often carried out in adverse weather.

Pilot vessels serve a vital role in safe vessel boarding and departure operations, but they also come with inherent risks.

Tipping stated: “Pilot boats present a particular challenge to seafarers as they provide a vital service in the worst possible maritime conditions.” He added that SWIFT could significantly “set the benchmark high for crew safety.”

Presentation at UKMPA conference

Zelim and MHPA will present their findings and showcase the SWIFT system at the 136th annual conference of the UK Maritime Pilots’ Association (UKMPA).

The event, scheduled for 19-21 November in Harrogate, UK, will bring together UK harbourmasters and pilots to discuss maritime safety innovations.

The presentation will allow Zelim and MHPA to highlight the potential operational advantages of the SWIFT system.

SWIFT is a conveyor belt rescue technology approved by Lloyd’s Register, designed to rapidly recover people from the water by lowering the belt into the sea and pulling individuals to safety.

Sam Mayall, Zelim’s CEO, stated: “The clock starts ticking the moment someone falls overboard, so the faster you can get someone out of the water the greater the chances of recovering them safely and unharmed.”

The conference will provide a platform to demonstrate SWIFT’s practical application in high-risk settings.

Milford Haven Port Authority pilots Zelim SWIFT system to boost UK maritime safety: Summary

The Milford Haven Port Authority has installed Zelim’s SWIFT man-overboard recovery system on a 19-metre pilot vessel for a three-month evaluation, testing the system’s capabilities in high-sea conditions.

Initial trials have shown SWIFT’s effectiveness in 2.5-metre swells, supporting its use in hazardous maritime settings.

If successful, SWIFT may be fitted on new 22-metre pilot boats being constructed for MHPA.

Both Zelim and MHPA will present the technology at the UKMPA conference in Harrogate in November, where they will discuss its potential to enhance pilot and crew safety.

VIKING Life-Saving Equipment signs exclusive global service agreement with FAIN for marine fire systems

by Featured NewsPorts & Maritime

Exclusive agreement expands marine fire service capabilities worldwide

Global safety solutions provider VIKING Life-Saving Equipment has signed an exclusive worldwide agreement with South Korean company FAIN Co., Ltd., a major supplier of marine firefighting systems, to deliver certified services for fire safety equipment in marine environments.

According to Viking, the deal positions VIKING as the sole party authorised to service and maintain firefighting systems installed by FAIN in the marine and offshore sectors globally.

Headquartered in Yangsan, South Korea, FAIN supplies a range of firefighting systems, including CO₂, foam, DP, water-mist, sprinklers, and alternative gas systems.

Its client base spans shipyards in China, South Korea, and Japan, which are leading nations in shipbuilding.

VIKING enhances global marine fire safety services

The partnership supports VIKING’s broader strategy to expand marine fire safety services worldwide, leveraging its network of more than 280 certified service stations.

“This is a global partnership which reflects the shared vision and commitment of our companies to deliver high-quality marine fire safety worldwide,” stated William Gielen, VIKING’s Global Service Director – Marine Fire.

Through the agreement, VIKING will supply FAIN’s entire portfolio of spare parts for their marine systems, supporting shipyards and vessel owners worldwide.

VIKING’s Marine Fire Service technicians, trained at the VIKING Safety Academy in the Netherlands, are certified to inspect, service, and replace FAIN systems, enhancing service options for marine and offshore clients.

Training programs align with global standards

Following the finalisation of the agreement, a team of VIKING instructors completed advanced training at FAIN’s headquarters, enabling them to conduct ‘train-the-trainer’ programs on behalf of FAIN.

This specialised training qualifies VIKING technicians to meet high industry standards in marine fire safety and to support FAIN’s customers through ongoing crew training and system familiarisation.

According to Tommy Jun, FAIN’s Chief Operating Officer, “VIKING is FAIN’s trained and trusted global marine fire service provider that will service their customers’ equipment wherever they are in the world.

“Also, VIKING can assist FAIN’s customers with crew training and familiarisation on our systems.”

Industry collaboration fosters marine fire safety advancements

The agreement formalises the two companies’ collaboration in marine fire safety.

Donghoon Kim, Sales Manager for Distributors at VIKING, described the collaboration as a “partnership in safety,” designed to integrate specialised manufacturing and service expertise to better serve global marine and offshore markets.

Through this partnership, VIKING will conduct firefighting foam system conversions for FAIN, supporting safer, more efficient fire safety systems in marine operations.

This partnership also aims to reinforce marine safety standards and streamline service capabilities for customers by offering a single certified provider for both equipment and service needs.

VIKING Life-Saving Equipment signs exclusive global service agreement with FAIN for marine fire systems: Summary

VIKING Life-Saving Equipment and South Korean firefighting systems supplier FAIN Co., Ltd.

have established an exclusive global partnership for marine fire safety services.

Under the agreement, VIKING will be the sole certified service provider for FAIN’s installed fire systems, delivering maintenance, inspections, and equipment replacements worldwide.

FAIN’s systems, utilised in major shipyards across China, South Korea, and Japan, include CO₂, foam, water-mist, and other firefighting solutions for marine use.

VIKING’s technicians, trained at the VIKING Safety Academy, will support these systems through certified service and a global spare parts supply network.

This collaboration enables VIKING to offer a single-source solution for marine fire safety and fire foam system conversions for FAIN customers worldwide, strengthening the companies’ shared commitment to marine safety.

Survitec receives awards for Seahaven inflatable lifeboat in innovation and safety

by Featured NewsPorts & Maritime

Survitec’s Seahaven wins recognition in innovation and safety

Global Survival Technology provider, Survitec, has been awarded two Ship Technology Excellence Awards for its Seahaven inflatable lifeboat, as reported by Survitec.

Recognised in both the Innovation and Safety categories, Seahaven stands as a modern alternative to traditional lifeboats and has been celebrated for its design and functionality at the annual awards, powered by GlobalData’s business intelligence platform.

These awards highlight individuals and companies driving forward developments within the maritime industry.

Originally launched by Survitec in 2022, Seahaven is designed for large cruise ships and can evacuate up to 1,060 passengers in under 22 minutes, which is well within the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulation of 30 minutes.

Seahaven’s design combines expertise from Survitec’s aerospace, defence, and maritime divisions, reflecting a collaborative approach to enhancing maritime safety.

New approach to lifeboat design

Seahaven represents a departure from traditional lifeboat models, which have remained largely unchanged since the Titanic era.

Commenting on this shift, Survitec’s Chief Operating Officer, Claude Sada, stated: “Cruise ships are reaching unprecedented sizes, accommodating up to 10,000 passengers and crew, but traditional lifeboats take up a lot of prime ship-side real-estate that could be better used to enhance the passenger experience.” Seahaven’s compact structure is Panamax compliant, allowing deployment in areas with varying tidal levels, like Alaska.

The Seahaven system also benefits the onboard environment by reducing space demands on the ship, particularly on Decks 6 and 7.

This opens up additional deck space, providing passengers with improved sea views and increased natural light, enhancing their onboard experience.

Operational efficiency and safety improvements

The Seahaven system is designed to enhance safety and efficiency in emergency evacuation scenarios.

With the ability to be deployed at the push of a button and automatic inflation, Seahaven minimises the need for crew intervention.

This ease of use reduces crew workloads and maintenance requirements, with Survitec reporting a 93% reduction in life-saving appliance (LSA) upkeep time, down from 150 hours to just 10 hours.

Additionally, Seahaven’s helical slide technology enables a safe and quick descent for passengers.

The technology’s performance in heavy weather conditions has been demonstrated, and its reduced crew involvement lowers the risk of human error in evacuation processes.

Collaborative development and engineering excellence

Survitec developed Seahaven over a five-year period, drawing on expertise from a team of 30 marine engineers.

This project applied advanced methodologies typically used in aerospace, resulting in a product that delivers high levels of reliability and operational cost-efficiency.

With extended service durations and lower maintenance demands, Seahaven aligns with high safety standards and long-term cost benefits for operators.

Chief Operating Officer Sada acknowledged the contributions of the entire Survitec team, stating: “Everyone involved in the Seahaven project must take enormous pride in celebrating these award wins.

“Colleagues across our organisation, from designers, technicians, finance, and marketing to countless others, have played an integral part in this success.”

Survitec wins Ship Technology Excellence Awards for Seahaven inflatable lifeboat: Summary

Survitec, a global provider of survival technology, has received two Ship Technology Excellence Awards for its Seahaven inflatable lifeboat in the categories of Innovation and Safety.

Seahaven, launched in 2022 and designed for large cruise ships, allows for the evacuation of up to 1,060 passengers in under 22 minutes, meeting SOLAS requirements.

The system’s compact design frees up deck space, enhancing onboard experience, and its automated features reduce crew demands.

Developed by Survitec’s team of engineers, Seahaven’s design incorporates aerospace engineering principles, offering improved safety and operational efficiencies.

Lambeth River Fire Station returns to Albert Embankment following six-month refurbishment

by Featured NewsPorts & Maritime

Historic return to Albert Embankment

Last month, Lambeth River Fire Station reopened at its historic site on Albert Embankment on the River Thames, following six months of extensive refurbishment work carried out in Lowestoft.

The fire station’s firefighters, who had been temporarily stationed at HMS President during the renovation, have now resumed operations from their original location, as reported by the London Fire Brigade.

Firefighting on the Thames dates back to the 1700s, with Lambeth River Fire Station established in 1936.

The station’s crews operate two fireboats that respond to incidents along the river, on bridges, and from the shoreline.

They work closely with organisations including the RNLI, the Metropolitan Police Service, HMS Coastguard, and the Port of London Authority, responding to over 170 incidents annually, averaging three responses weekly.

Refurbishment extends station’s lifespan

The refurbishment included comprehensive repairs to the station’s hull, enhancing its structural integrity and extending its operational lifespan by approximately 25 years.

Additional work included painting, redecoration, and overall improvements to crew facilities, ensuring that the station remains fit for purpose in serving London’s unique river-based firefighting needs.

Laura Birnbaum, Assistant Director of Property and Technical Support Services, stated: “After a significant investment into the maintenance of Lambeth River Fire Station, crews have been welcomed back to their historic home on Albert Embankment.”

Enhanced fireboats boost operational capabilities

The station’s return coincides with the recent addition of two new fireboats, ‘Tanner’ and ‘Errington’, which were acquired with a £3.2 million investment in 2022.

These boats are designed to reach speeds of up to 40 knots, double that of the previous vessels, and are equipped with advanced firefighting tools, including hydraulic cranes for water rescues and high-definition thermal imaging cameras.

Birnbaum noted: “Improvements to the station follow a £3.2m investment in two new fireboats.

“In service since 2022, ‘Tanner’ and ‘Errington’ are twice as fast as the previous vessels and can reach speeds of forty knots.”

Temporary relocation and collaboration with HMS President

During the refurbishment period, Lambeth River Fire Station’s crews operated from HMS President, with the support of the Royal Navy, ensuring uninterrupted service along the Thames.

The temporary relocation allowed the Brigade’s fireboats to continue responding to emergencies on the river.

Lieutenant Commander L J Broster of the Royal Navy expressed appreciation for the collaboration, stating: “HMS PRESIDENT has been very pleased to host our colleagues from London Fire Brigade (LFB) since February.

“During this period, LFB has utilised the site near Tower Bridge, operating two fire boats.”

Lambeth River Fire Station returns to Albert Embankment following six-month refurbishment: Summary

Lambeth River Fire Station has resumed operations from its historic base at Albert Embankment following a six-month refurbishment in Lowestoft.

Firefighters, temporarily stationed at HMS President, have returned to Lambeth, restoring the station’s operational readiness.

The refurbishment, which included improvements to the station’s hull and facilities, extends its service life by 25 years.

Additionally, two recently acquired fireboats, Tanner and Errington, enhance the station’s capacity to respond swiftly to emergencies along the Thames.

ClassNK awards safety notation to EV-carrying vessel

by Featured NewsPorts & MaritimeSafety

ClassNK awards firefighting notation to Positive Challenger

ClassNK has granted its ‘AFVC(FD)(EV)’ notation to the Positive Challenger, a car carrier operated by Eastern Car Liner, Ltd.

The vessel, managed by ECL Shipmanagement Limited, is equipped with advanced firefighting measures specifically designed for the safe transport of electric vehicles (EVs).

As reported by ClassNK, the notation is part of a wider effort to address the challenges posed by EV fires, which can be difficult to extinguish and carry a risk of re-ignition.

These concerns have prompted shipping companies to adopt various fire prevention and suppression strategies, supported by ClassNK’s “Guidelines for the Safe Transportation of Electric Vehicles.”

Features of the ‘FD’ firefighting notation

The ‘FD’ notation, one of five safety categories introduced by ClassNK, is awarded to vessels that incorporate early detection and response measures for vehicle fires.

The Positive Challenger has been fitted with three AI-powered detection systems designed to identify smoke, heat, and sudden temperature rises.

These features allow for the early detection of anomalies, such as the generation of flammable gases or overheating, enabling faster responses to potential fires.

According to ClassNK, these detection systems allow for earlier identification of vehicles on fire compared to conventional methods, such as standard smoke detectors.

The ability to alert crew members at an earlier stage is considered a key factor in managing fire risks aboard EV transport vessels.

ClassNK’s ongoing commitment to EV safety

ClassNK has introduced the AFVC notations as part of its efforts to improve EV transport safety.

Each notation recognises a different set of safety measures and protocols designed to address specific fire-related challenges unique to electric vehicles.

The FD notation granted to the Positive Challenger represents ClassNK’s emphasis on early detection and quick identification of vehicle fires.

In addition to providing these notations, ClassNK offers guidance through its official “Guidelines for the Safe Transportation of Electric Vehicles.”

These guidelines highlight the distinct nature of EV fires and offer practical recommendations for preventing and managing them.

Shipping industry response to EV fire risks

The shipping industry has recognised the need for enhanced safety protocols for EV transport, due to the unique fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries.

Fires involving these batteries can re-ignite after being extinguished, posing additional risks.

To address these challenges, vessels such as the Positive Challenger are incorporating advanced technologies like AI-based detection systems to improve safety.

Shipping companies and classification societies are also collaborating to develop more stringent safety standards for EV transport.

ClassNK awards safety notation to EV-carrying vessel: Summary

ClassNK has awarded its AFVC(FD)(EV) notation to the car carrier Positive Challenger, operated by Eastern Car Liner, Ltd.

The notation recognises the vessel’s advanced firefighting systems, specifically designed to address the unique challenges posed by transporting electric vehicles (EVs).

The Positive Challenger is equipped with three AI-based anomaly detection systems that monitor for smoke, heat, and sudden temperature rises.

These systems enable early detection of potential fires, allowing crew members to respond more quickly than with traditional smoke detectors.

This effort is part of ClassNK’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the safety of EV transport, as outlined in its “Guidelines for the Safe Transportation of Electric Vehicles.”

Survitec Suitxchange removes compliance burdens and reduces port delays

by Health and SafetyPorts & MaritimeProductsSafety

Global Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec has introduced a new rental and exchange service to ensure ship operators always have fully serviced and certified immersion suits onboard.

SuitXChange offers two immersion suits from its world-leading brands, Hansen Protection and Crewsaver. It is a fast exchange service designed to remove the administrative, financial, and operational challenges ship managers face awaiting the return of serviced suits during scheduled port visits.

The development, which provides a more timely and sustainable solution for immersion suit servicing, follows the success of Survitec’s RaftXChange service. When Survitec introduced the world’s first global Liferaft exchange programme in 2008, the industry quickly saw the benefits of quick port turnaround, controlled compliance, and lower capital costs.

Metkel Yohannes, Survitec’s Director of Service and Rental Solutions, said: “By opting for a rental and exchange agreement, no capital investment is required. The prices are fixed, meaning our customers will never be hit with unforeseen costs, allowing them to plan and budget more accurately”.

Under Survitec’s new SuitXChange programme, immersion suits due for certification can be replaced with newly serviced, fully certified suits of the same type, which are ready for exchange as soon as the vessel enters port, supporting customer calls for shorter port stays. The logistics required to service suits are reduced, so less transportation is needed, resulting in a more environmentally sustainable operation. The service facilitates overall cost reduction and better management through fixed annual charges. At the same time, Survitec’s team of highly skilled technicians ensure immersion suits are always compliant with the regulations.

Survitec implemented an eight-month SuitXChange pilot programme to gain insight from its customers. The research helped the company tailor the service to ship managers’ requirements before launching to the market.

“Ship managers often tell us they struggle to get their suits serviced in time, having to rent or buy additional suits to prevent port delays. And then had to pay for those suits being serviced to be shipped to their next location for pickup. With SuitXChange, ship managers no longer need to worry about ensuring they have compliant suits and in-date certificates. We take care of it all”, said Survitec’s Product Category Manager, Alex Scollins.

Ship managers who have already signed a Survitec rental agreement say SuitXChange negates any immersion suit capital expenditure and can reduce the time their vessel spends in port. SuitXChange also eliminates the administrative burden of due-date management, tracking, managing, and ensuring that all associated tasks are completed. Under the agreement, Survitec will fulfil all related tasks.

Since different immersion suits have different service intervals, Survitec offers its Crewsaver Endurance immersion suit for a six-year rental period, with exchanges taking place every three years.

The enhanced SuitXChange+ program offers the premium Hansen Protection SeaEco+ immersion suit, certified for use without a lifejacket.

Both offer fully tested, certified, and SOLAS-compliant immersion suits for a fixed annual rental fee. It is a mandatory requirement under SOLAS regulation III/32 (as amended by resolution MSC.152(78) that all persons on board merchant ships have an immersion suit regularly serviced and certified to prolong the in-water life of each crew member following ship abandonment ship.

“We offer a straightforward administration approach with a key account manager backed up by an experienced global customer service team. We facilitate all the preparation and logistics of the immersion suit exchange, delivering peace of mind.

“We have the largest, most comprehensive service network worldwide, so we can guarantee that immersion suits are replaced with newly serviced, fully certified suits of the same type at all the major maritime hubs,” said Yohannes.

New White Paper from Survitec urges reform of Methanol Fire Safety Guidelines

by Fire SuppressionPorts & MaritimeProjectsSafetySustainability

Global Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec has welcomed new guidance from classification society DNV on the fire safety arrangements for methanol-fuelled vessels but advises that more work is required before ships running on methanol can be completely fire-safe.

Findings from a Survitec study carried out earlier this year and published in the White Paper ‘Do we need new fire safety standards for methanol?’, distributed to industry for the first time at the SMM trade fair in Hamburg, Germany, confirmed existing fire-fighting methods are insufficient for methanol.

“Current water mist-based Local Application Firefighting (LAFF) arrangements, for example, had no effect on a methanol fire even after five minutes of continuous operation,” said Michał Sadzyński, Product Manager, Water Mist Systems, Survitec.”

The safety study conducted by Survitec found two factors were key to putting out a methanol engine room fire: the volume of water released under pressure and the discharge pattern of the water. This required adjustments to the water pump supply and the water mist nozzle’s spacing and placement height to achieve the right coverage to completely extinguish the fire.

“While the LAFF system is a localised first-response system that focuses on the most likely source of a fire, generally the engine, a gas-based Total Flooding solution – CO2 or Survitec 1230 Clean Agent – will also be required to cover the entirety of the machinery space,” said Sadzyński.

The firefighting foam typically used to extinguish bilge hydrocarbon fires was also found to be inadequate, even alcohol-resistant foams using conventional nozzles and water:foam ratios, leading Survitec to develop new nozzles and attachments.

These nozzle adaptors aspirate the foam, allowing it to expand within the space and to extinguish methanol, diesel, heptane and lubrication oil fires. Trials of the new nozzle also confirmed that fluorine-free alcohol-resistant foam was just as effective with the new adaptor for methanol fires as standard AFFF alcohol-resistant foams.

Maciej Nieścioruk, Product Manager, Foam and Clean Agent Systems, Survitec, said: “DNV-RU-SHIP Pt.6 provides additional guidance on the Total Flooding, Bilge Foam and Local Fire Fighting requirements for engines running on methanol. This helps clarify international guidelines under IMO’s MSC.1/Circ.1621, which many ship operators have found confusing. However, we still believe more needs to be done.”

A particular issue of concern is that international guidelines do not provide clear test protocols for alcohol-based fires. These are required, says Survitec, because the firefighting systems, foams and nozzle configurations used for hydrocarbon fires are ineffective in extinguishing alcohol-based fuel fires. As a result, system arrangements must be adapted to work for methanol fire, with system performance then tested and verified in the lab.

“Local Application Firefighting systems are not covered at all in the IMO rules, and there is no mention of any fire safety adjustments being required for the safe use of methanol (CH3OH) as a marine fuel, although some classification societies like DNV, are starting to specify additional requirements,” Nieścioruk said.

“In practice, this means that firefighting measures for methanol will largely be based on those that exist for hydrocarbon fuels, which we now know will not put out a methanol fire,” he said.

The tests carried out at the RISE Fire Research Laboratory, Trondheim, Norway, one of the world’s largest research organisations on fire, showed that for Category A Machinery Spaces, three separate systems are required to protect the ship and crew from methanol-fuelled engine fires.

The Survitec fire safety team has since been working to raise awareness of the key challenges surrounding methanol fire safety and share their findings from the safety study. They are already discussing with other class societies and shipyards how to develop comprehensive requirements covering all vessel types.

“We encourage all stakeholders to come together to address methanol’s unique fire risks and create clear standards, new testing protocols and updated safety rules for methanol to ensure we keep our vessels – and most importantly – our crews, safe”, says Sadzyński.

The Survitec White Paper ‘Do we need new fire safety standards for methanol?’ can be downloaded here Do we need new safety standards for methanol? | Survitec (survitecgroup.com)

About Survitec

Survitec is a global Survival Technology leader to the maritime, defence & government, aerospace and energy sectors. Survitec has over 3,000 employees worldwide, covering 11 manufacturing facilities and over 400 service centres. They operate in over 2,000 ports, spanning 96 countries. Survitec are the world’s largest manufacturer and supplier of liferaft, Marine Evacuation Systems (MES) and offshore rental PPE. They are a leading supplier of fire solutions to the maritime industry and hold a market leading position for Pilot Flight Equipment in the aerospace & defence market. The Survitec team live by their purpose “We Exist to Protect Lives”. Throughout its 168-year history, Survitec has remained at the forefront of innovation, design and application engineering and is the trusted name when it comes to critical safety and survival solutions. www.survitecgroup.com

Zelim Unveils World’s First Unmanned Man Overboard Rescue Vessel at SMM Trade Fair

by Ports & MaritimeProductsSafetyTransportVehicles

Zelim, the Edinburgh based sea survival innovator, has officially launched the world’s first unmanned/manned remotely controlled person-in-water rescue vessel.

GUARDIAN, an 8.4m long, 2.5 wide aluminium hulled Next Generation Fast Rescue Craft (FRC), was unveiled to the international maritime industry for the first time at the SMM Trade Fair, in Hamburg, Germany.

Specifically designed for rapid deployment from a ship to recover both conscious and unconscious man-overboard casualties, the GUARDIAN FRC can operate in maritime conditions that conventional manned recovery solutions would find challenging or too dangerous to deploy.

Taking four years’ research and development, with input from the UK’s Maritime & Coastguard Agency and the US Coastguard GUARDIAN incorporates Zelim’s type approved SWIFT rapid rescue conveyor and ZOE, Zelim’s intelligent detection software for optimising search.

During a MOB event, GUARDIAN is instantaneously lowered into the water by way of a ship’s existing LARS davit installed at deck level.  Once in the water, an Alamarin AJ285 waterjet powered by a single Bukh VGT 400HP motor speeds the rescue vessel along at a rate of 30-plus knots towards the casualty. GUARDIAN’S range is 15nmiles with a six-hour endurance.

As it nears the person(s) in the water, the FRC lowers the integrated SWIFT and slowly heads towards the casualty who is then recovered from the water by the rescue conveyor, which is specifically designed to grip and recover immersed casualties, whilst minimising the risk to casualties from the loss of hydrostatic pressure. SWIFT can pull two survivors to safety simultaneously, minimising the risk for rescuers.

Given that about 40% of all man-overboard incidents results in fatality, with more than 1000 people falling overboard annually, the efficiency and simplicity of Zelim’s GUARDIAN in rescue missions cannot be understated. 

“Sea survival is hugely dependent on the time it takes to retrieve individuals from the water, but inclement weather can prohibit the launch of manned rescue craft and lives are needlessly lost,” said Zelim founder and innovator Sam Mayall.

“Ship crews have little time to carry out an effective rescue before maritime conditions prevent the casualty from assisting in their own rescue. When rescue vessels approach, many survivors simply don’t have the strength to pull themselves to safety. This is even more difficult when they are unconscious or unresponsive. GUARDIAN has been designed to ensure more people can be rescued in the harshest of weather conditions.”

With capacity for 11 survivors (nine if GUARDIAN deployed with a two-person crew), the lightweight FRC also benefits from AI-based person-in-water detection and alerting system.

Peter Lloyd, Zelim’s Director of Search and Rescue, said: “Speed is the key to rescuing individuals from the water before they perish. But first you must find your casualty. Sea search is notoriously difficult with human performance subject to distraction and loss of attention, especially during a prolonged search. In Zelim’s aim to develop an unmanned rescue vessel, sea search had to be automated.”

The result of Zelim’s product development was ZOE, a new software tool capable of providing instant detection and alerting of persons and objects that enter a field of view. ZOE is also capable of differentiating between a human in the water and other objects that might be present such as buoys, flotsam and jetsam.

Providing real time location information and integrated with the GUARDIAN’S navigational system, the technology allows rescuers to see what the human eye cannot with visual cues overlayed on a simple display.

While Zelim is marketing SWIFT and ZOE as standalone maritime safety and security tools, their integration with GUARDIAN demonstrates how easily the technology can mitigate the risks for both rescuer and casualty to improve the chances of MOB recovery.

“The decision to launch any rescue asset is always a balance between the risk to the rescuers and the probability of success. An unmanned, or lean manned GUARDIAN, may permit a launch in conditions beyond those normally accepted,” said Lloyd.

The FRC can operate with or without a crew, remotely, and has enhanced rescue situational awareness capability. It has the same footprint as conventional craft, and can be easily stowed and deployed using existing davits.

In addition to MOB missions, GUARDIAN can perform a variety unmanned maritime safety and security roles, including search and rescue, security patrols, standby and recovery. Zelim believes GUARDIAN should be installed on ocean-going vessels, including cruise ships, and offshore vessels and platforms, as a matter of course.

Zelim’s SWIFT recovery system receives Lloyd’s Register approval

by Ports & MaritimeProductsSafety

Zelim’s SWIFT device approved for maritime use

Zelim’s SWIFT man overboard recovery system has received type approval from Lloyd’s Register.

This certification follows extensive in-water tests at Fleetwood Testing Laboratory and Heavy Weather Sea Trials, enabling the system’s widespread adoption within the maritime industry.

The SWIFT system was successfully demonstrated during trials in May 2023 at a windfarm offshore Ramsgate in the Southern Bight of the North Sea.

The system recovered a test dummy two nautical miles offshore, performing more than twenty times faster than conventional man overboard equipment.

The SWIFT device is designed to pull both conscious and unconscious individuals from the sea in under one minute.

Compliance with SOLAS standards

The SWIFT system has been confirmed as compliant with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) standards.

Zelim’s CEO, Sam Mayall, highlighted the significance of this certification for the global maritime and offshore industries, stating: “Type approval certification assures the global maritime and offshore industries that SWIFT is compliant with SOLAS and can be adopted as a primary means of man overboard recovery for ships and offshore installations.”

Developed by operational search and rescue personnel, the SWIFT system uses a conveyor belt mechanism attached to a rescue vessel.

When the vessel approaches a casualty, the system lowers into the water, and the conveyor belt pulls the individual to safety.

Improving survival rates at sea

Mayall emphasised the importance of reducing the time it takes to retrieve individuals from the water: “Sea survival is hugely dependent on the time it takes to retrieve individuals from the water, but often high sea states make recovery difficult.

“When rescue vessels approach, many survivors do not have the strength to pull themselves to safety.”

Industry statistics underscore the urgency of improved man overboard recovery methods.

Only 17% to 25% of passengers who fall overboard during cruises survive.

Additionally, between 2015 and 2023, 40% of the 308 man overboard incidents reported to the UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Board resulted in fatalities.

Potential impact on maritime safety

Zelim’s Chief Operating Officer, Stewart Gregory, stressed the potential impact of the SWIFT system on reducing fatalities: “The maritime and offshore industries now have a fully type approved certified system capable of rapidly rescuing people from the sea in all weather conditions.

“Lives lost to man overboard incidents could be reduced substantially if every rescue boat, crew boat, pilot boat or tender was equipped with SWIFT as a matter of course.”

Swift man overboard recovery system achieves Lloyd’s Register type approval: summary

Zelim’s SWIFT man overboard recovery system has received full type approval from Lloyd’s Register, following rigorous performance tests.

This certification ensures that the SWIFT system is compliant with SOLAS standards and ready for widespread adoption in the maritime industry.

Designed to rapidly pull individuals from the sea, the SWIFT system demonstrated its efficiency by outperforming traditional rescue methods during trials.