Two dead after Mexican Navy ship strikes Brooklyn Bridge in New York

by Featured NewsPorts & Maritime

Brooklyn Bridge accident kills two Mexican Navy cadets

Media reports have confirmed that two people died and at least 22 others were injured after the Mexican Navy training ship Cuauhtémoc collided with the Brooklyn Bridge in New York on 17 May 2025.

According to the New York City Police Department, the vessel lost power while manoeuvring, resulting in the masts striking the bridge and partially collapsing.

The ship was carrying 277 people at the time of the incident, which occurred as it passed under the Brooklyn Bridge in turbulent tidal conditions.

Eyewitnesses describe panic and chaos at the scene

Multiple media outlets have shared footage showing the Cuauhtémoc’s masts striking the bridge structure, with sailors falling and debris crashing onto the deck.

Brooklyn resident Nick Corso told AFP: “There was lots of screaming, some sailors hanging from the masts.”

According to the Guardian, Sydney Neidell and Lily Katz reported seeing one person dangling from the rigging for around 15 minutes before being rescued.

Kelvin Flores, speaking to the BBC, described the area as full of “commotion and a lot of chaos,” with emergency services struggling to reach the ship due to heavy traffic.

Emergency services conduct complex rescue operation

FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker said in a press briefing that fire, police, and EMS units coordinated a large-scale response from both sides of the East River.

Tucker stated: “We didn’t know how many were injured, so we had to prepare for the worst.”

He added: “Our Marine units got out there, picked up Rescue 2 and Rescue 4, brought them out to the vessel. They started to remove and treat the aided.”

The operation included the establishment of a casualty collection point at Pier 16 in Manhattan, where 27 individuals were assessed and transported to hospital.

FDNY describes coordinated multi-agency response

FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker explained that the response began at approximately 8:20pm when reports came in that a vessel had struck the Brooklyn Bridge.

He said: “We had a second alarm assignment respond. Our Marine Division did an absolutely amazing job in cooperation with our partners at the NYPD.”

Tucker noted that initial concerns included potential persons in the water and unknown casualty numbers.

He added: “We had to prepare for the worst.”

The response was divided between both the Brooklyn and Manhattan sides of the river.

A casualty collection point and EMS staging area were established at Pier 16 on the Manhattan side.

Tucker said EMS and rescue personnel were transported to the vessel to begin immediate triage and treatment.

He emphasised the importance of deploying medical teams directly to the scene: “It’s critical for us to both get our rescue personnel out there and our EMS personnel.

“That way, we can start to do those types of treatments that might save their lives once we get them to shore.”

He concluded that this type of integrated emergency response is why the city drills for complex incidents, citing a recent exercise on Fire Island.

Mexico confirms fatalities and cancels ship’s tour

President Claudia Sheinbaum posted on social media: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of two crew members of the training ship Cuauhtémoc, who lost their lives in the unfortunate accident in New York.”

The Mexican government identified the two deceased as cadets Adal Jair Marcos and América Yamilet Sánchez.

A bulletin from the Mexican Navy stated that 11 of the injured were in critical condition and confirmed the cancellation of the remainder of the ship’s scheduled international tour.

The vessel was originally en route to Iceland with planned stops including Aberdeen and London as part of a 200th anniversary tour marking Mexico’s independence.

Mexican Navy training ship Cuauhtémoc crashes in New York: Summary

Two people were killed when the Mexican Navy ship Cuauhtémoc struck the Brooklyn Bridge on 17 May 2025.

Media reports stated the vessel lost power and collided with the structure, causing its three masts to break.

A total of 277 people were on board at the time of the incident.

New York authorities reported 22 injuries, with 11 in critical condition.

Emergency responders used marine units to reach the ship and evacuate casualties.

The Mexican Navy confirmed the two deceased were naval cadets.

The crash occurred during the vessel’s international goodwill tour.

The ship was towed away from the scene following the incident.

No damage to the Brooklyn Bridge was reported after inspection.

Mexico has cancelled the Cuauhtémoc’s planned 254-day voyage.

SHIELD backed by University of Strathclyde

by Featured NewsPeopleSafety

The University of Strathclyde is encouraging ship operators, safety professionals and accident investigators to use the Safety Human Incident & Error Learning Database (SHIELD) to better understand the underlying root cause of human-factor related issues in maritime incidents.

SHIELD, developed by a consortium of partners across the aviation and maritime spheres as part of the European Union’s SAFEMODE project, was launched in 2022 and is now being used by major cruise lines, a UK-based ferry operator, safety agencies in Europe and Asia and a number of accident investigation boards.

University of Strathclyde Maritime Human Factors Centre, Head, Dr Rafet Emek Kurt’s statement

Dr Rafet Emek Kurt, the Head of the University’s Maritime Human Factors Centre spoke on his belief that more data is required if SHIELD is to have a material benefit on future maritime safety and policy.

Dr Kurt said: “Human factors have long been recognized as a critical element in shipping safety, yet whenever there is an accident, in reaction to the lessons learnt we continue to overload the seafarer with more safety procedures, more checklists, more training.

“This is largely ineffective in reducing human factor incidents and increases the cognitive load on the seafarer. We need to address the root cause of an accident to have any meaningful impact.”

Kurt said that the SHIELD platform provides invaluable feedback to shipmanagers, policymakers, accident investigators and ship and system builders to better quantify the human components in safety risk models, resulting in positive changes in ship design, operations and rules.

“So far, in the absence of high-quality data, the maritime sector has failed to include human factor considerations in critical decision making. As a result, envisaged safety improvements from the sector have been ineffective, with accidents continuing to occur at a steady rate after.”

SHIELD’S impact

Dr Kurt emphasised that through industry-wide collaboration and use of SHIELD, stakeholders can better understand underlying human factor contributors. The data can also serve to develop new accident and risk models as well as tailor research to address any shortcomings.

The SHIELD taxonomy assesses input data against a range of extenuating factors affecting human performance, such as workload, situation awareness, stress and fatigue, human system interfaces, and teamwork.

But, it goes further by providing insight into how organisational and leadership structures, strategies, cultures and socioeconomics play a part.

“SHIELD represents a paradigm shift in how the shipping industry approaches safety,” said Kurt. “By empowering shipowners to deeply analyse their accident data, we can move beyond the traditional ‘human error’ narrative and uncover the true drivers of incidents. This knowledge is invaluable in creating a safer, more efficient, and more sustainable maritime sector.”

The University of Strathclyde support use of SHIELD: Summary

Dr Rafet Emek Kurt, the Head of the University’s Maritime Human Factors Centre has voiced support for the Safety Human Incident & Error Learning Database (SHIELD).

Dr Kurt said SHIELD represents a paradigm shift in how the shipping industry approaches safety.

Zelim expands to North America with US Coast Guard Commander appointment

by Featured NewsPorts & Maritime

Zelim’s North American expansion strategy

Zelim, based in Edinburgh, has appointed Commander Matthew Mitchell, a former United States Coast Guard (USCG) officer, as its Director of Search and Rescue.

Commander Mitchell brings two decades of USCG experience, most recently as head of search and rescue and policy.

He will oversee Zelim LLC, the company’s newly incorporated North American entity.

The expansion includes setting up a base on the USA’s East Coast and building a team to support sales of Zelim’s ZOE Intelligent Detection system, GUARDIAN rescue craft, and SWIFT Man-overboard Recovery Conveyor.

Zelim CTO Doug Lothian said: “Matt has already played a pivotal role in securing a cooperative R&D agreement with the USCG, resulting in ZOE’s development and market introduction.

“We look forward to continuing this relationship and drawing on Matt’s extensive experience and network.”

Commander Mitchell’s vision for maritime safety

Matthew Mitchell, Zelim’s new Director of Search and Rescue, highlighted the importance of the company’s technologies in addressing current limitations in maritime safety.

Mitchell said: “Zelim’s solutions represent a quantum leap forward in man-overboard monitoring and response.

“I am determined to ensure this technology is implemented worldwide.”

He described the ZOE system as the most significant advancement in search and rescue technology since 1946, with the potential to transform detection and response capabilities.

Mitchell added that Zelim’s commitment to improving maritime safety was a major factor in his decision to join the team.

Funding to support growth and innovation

Zelim recently closed a Series A investment round, securing £5.2 million in funding from Amati Global Investors, existing backers, and new private investors.

An additional £1.95 million was obtained through Innovate UK’s Innovation Loan programme to support the ongoing development of the ZOE product line.

Founder and CEO Sam Mayall said: “The successful closure of this round… indicates the confidence the market has in the company and our technologies.”

Zelim’s expansion into the Americas is central to its growth strategy, with a focus on meeting strong demand for its life-saving technology in North America’s maritime markets.

ZOE trials and North American partnerships

ZOE technology is being trialled across several sectors in North America.

A second installation is planned on a Texas-based offshore contractor’s jack-up rig, while the Canadian Civil Aviation Search and Rescue Association and North American defence customers are testing the system.

Zelim has already secured early partnerships and sales in the USA and Canada.

The physical presence of Zelim LLC will allow the company to meet growing customer demand more effectively.

Zelim expands to North America with US Coast Guard Commander appointment: Summary

Edinburgh-based maritime safety company Zelim has appointed former US Coast Guard Commander Matthew Mitchell as Director of Search and Rescue.

Mitchell will oversee Zelim LLC, a newly established entity on the USA’s East Coast, to support the expansion of its technologies, including ZOE Intelligent Detection, GUARDIAN rescue craft, and SWIFT Man-overboard Recovery Conveyor.

The company recently raised £5.2 million in Series A funding, along with £1.95 million from Innovate UK, to develop its product line and support North American operations.

ZOE is undergoing trials with Canadian and US defence customers and will be installed on a Texas offshore contractor’s rig.

Zelim’s CEO, Sam Mayall, described North America as a key market, citing growing demand for life-saving maritime technologies across various sectors.

White paper wins award for addressing maritime fire safety deficiencies

by Featured NewsPorts & MaritimeSafety

Survitec report highlights gaps in maritime fire safety

A white paper by Survitec has won the Safety in Maritime (Marine) award at the International Bulk Journal (IBJ) Awards.

The document, titled Why Are the Fires Not Going Out? Unveiling the True Cost of Inadequate Fire Safety Inspections, focuses on critical lapses in fire safety practices across the maritime sector.

According to the paper, systemic risks and post-pandemic cost-cutting measures have contributed to a rise in shipboard fire incidents globally.

Survitec’s research draws on data and testimonies from its network of service technicians.

The findings reveal that untrained crews often perform fire safety maintenance, leading to system failures such as incorrect installations, counterfeit parts, and poorly fitted equipment.

Fire safety lapses and real-world consequences

The white paper highlights examples of fire safety failures and their consequences.

In one case, a vessel’s high-expansion foam system failed during an engine room fire due to a blockage caused by a protective cap left in the system during installation.

Another incident in early 2024 involved a bulk carrier fire, which resulted in $2-3 million USD in damages.

Over half of the CO2 cylinders recently inspected and certified failed to activate during the emergency.

Survitec’s study also warns of emerging risks linked to alternative fuels and lithium-ion batteries, emphasising the need for specialised detection and firefighting systems.

Call for industry-wide improvements

Metkel Yohannes, Director of Service & Rental Solutions at Survitec, stressed the importance of improved fire safety standards:

“Shipboard fires have risen by 17% year-on-year, becoming one of the leading causes of maritime losses and the most expensive source of marine insurance claims, accounting for over 20% of total losses.”

Yohannes added: “While advancements in fire detection and protection technologies have been made, the industry is still seeing alarming levels of fire safety deficiencies, with thousands of incidents reported each year by international inspection authorities.”

Survitec urges the maritime industry to implement stricter oversight and quality control measures for safety inspections.

Award underscores importance of fire safety in maritime

The IBJ Awards’ recognition of Survitec’s white paper highlights ongoing concerns about fire safety in the maritime industry.

The paper advocates for the adoption of international standards and calls for accredited safety partners to ensure compliance with rigorous benchmarks.

Yohannes noted:

“Shipowners and operators need accredited partners with the expertise to ensure their safety systems perform under the most demanding conditions.

“Anything less is not only a false economy but a threat to crew safety and vessel integrity.”

The award-winning paper aims to drive meaningful change within the maritime sector.

Survitec white paper recognised at IBJ Awards for safety insights: Summary

A Survitec white paper titled Why Are the Fires Not Going Out? Unveiling the True Cost of Inadequate Fire Safety Inspections won the Safety in Maritime (Marine) award at the IBJ Awards.

It highlights systemic risks in fire safety practices, with examples of maintenance failures and untrained crews leading to shipboard incidents.

One case involved a vessel where fire system blockages went undetected due to poor maintenance, while another saw a bulk carrier suffer millions in damages after CO2 systems failed.

The study also addresses emerging risks from alternative fuels and lithium-ion batteries, calling for stricter standards and accredited service providers.

Metkel Yohannes of Survitec emphasised the need for improved oversight, noting that shipboard fires are a leading cause of maritime losses.

The award reinforces the importance of addressing these issues across the industry.

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.

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.

Global marine fire safety system market to reach USD 159.1 billion by 2032

by Featured NewsPorts & Maritime

Market growth driven by advanced fire safety technologies and crew training

The global marine fire safety system market is projected to expand from USD 86.05 billion in 2023 to USD 159.1 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% during the forecast period of 2024–2032, as reported by Industry Today.

This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for advanced fire detection and suppression technologies in maritime operations.

The emphasis on crew training and competency development is also a key factor propelling the market, with shipowners and operators recognising the importance of well-trained personnel in effectively responding to fire emergencies and reducing risks to life and property.

Environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance are significant factors fuelling the market.

With rising scrutiny on the environmental impact of traditional firefighting agents, there is an increasing demand for alternative solutions that minimise ecological harm while maintaining fire safety efficacy.

Impact of artificial intelligence on marine fire safety systems

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming fire safety measures in the maritime industry.

By integrating AI-powered systems, vessels can proactively detect potential fire risks, analyse complex data patterns, and execute swift responses to enhance safety.

AI algorithms facilitate predictive modelling, allowing maritime authorities and ship operators to forecast fire occurrences based on historical data, environmental conditions, and vessel-specific parameters.

AI-driven solutions also optimise resource allocation by autonomously directing firefighting efforts and deploying extinguishing agents precisely where needed.

This advanced technology is revolutionising how vessels mitigate and prevent fire hazards, providing a significant boost to safety measures on board.

Major drivers and existing restraints in the market

The increasing globalisation and international trade within the maritime industry are primary drivers of the market.

The expansion of maritime activities in key shipping routes and ports worldwide is expected to drive the adoption of advanced fire prevention and suppression technologies to protect valuable assets and ensure uninterrupted trade operations.

Additionally, concerns over onboard safety and the protection of human lives are fuelling the market.

With passenger vessels, cruise ships, and ferries accommodating large numbers of travellers, safety remains paramount, prompting investments in cutting-edge fire detection and suppression technologies.

However, the complexity and cost of implementing advanced marine fire safety systems pose significant restraints.

The high initial investment required for installing and maintaining sophisticated fire detection, suppression, and control equipment deters small and medium-sized vessel owners from upgrading their safety systems.

Furthermore, environmental concerns over traditional fire suppression agents limit the market due to regulatory restrictions and international agreements aimed at phasing out ozone-depleting substances and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Emerging opportunities and regional outlook

The rapid digitalisation and automation of maritime operations are creating lucrative opportunities for the integration of AI and machine learning (ML) technologies in the market.

AI-powered predictive analytics enable ships to anticipate fire hazards based on real-time data insights, allowing for proactive risk mitigation measures and reducing the likelihood of catastrophic incidents.

The rising demand for autonomous and unmanned vessels also presents new opportunities, with AI-powered fire detection and suppression systems, including autonomous firefighting drones and robotic devices, offering scalable and efficient solutions for mitigating fire risks in unmanned operations.

Regionally, North America held a major market share in 2023 due to stringent regulatory frameworks and the presence of prominent maritime industry players investing in advanced fire safety technologies.

The robust maritime infrastructure in North America, coupled with a strong focus on safety and compliance standards, is driving the adoption of sophisticated fire detection and suppression systems across various vessel types.

The Asia Pacific region is projected to experience significant growth due to robust economic development, increasing trade activities, and investments in port infrastructure across countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore.

The region’s focus on enhancing safety standards and regulatory compliance in maritime operations, along with rising awareness of the importance of fire safety measures, is expected to drive the demand for advanced fire detection and suppression technologies.

Maritime Protection launches remote support service

by Featured NewsPorts & Maritime

In a game-changing move for the maritime industry, Survitec’s brand, Maritime Protection, has unveiled a novel remote support service that promises to optimise system performance and bring down running costs for operators of Inert Gas (IG) systems. This service was successfully trialled with a top-tier tanker operator and is now set to revolutionise how ships manage IG systems.

The benefits of the new offering became clear during the recent Covid pandemic, when travel restrictions hampered the usual flow of traffic on and off ships, and onsite repair services were frequently obstructed. In response to this challenge, Maritime Protection and a renowned European tanker operator developed this remote support solution, which is now functioning aboard 32 product tankers.

Remote Support

The Remote Support service facilitates faster access to expert advice and support in case of system failures or inefficiencies. The IG engineers at Maritime Protection can remotely access the system, help fine-tune it, diagnose faults, and organise solutions, without the need for costly and time-consuming travel to the vessel.

Managing Director of Maritime Protection, Bernt Øhrn, commented, “Inert gas systems are essential and complex safety systems.” He highlighted that any failure is “effectively treated as an emergency situation requiring immediate remedial action,” and this service will help mitigate such scenarios.

Crew members on board simply have to reach out to Maritime Protection’s IG specialists, who can then offer guidance to rectify any issues. If a situation does warrant a physical visit, the service also enables technicians to identify the problem and the necessary spare parts in advance, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

The innovative Remote Support uses a secure VPN gateway, which is easy to install without any system wiring or modifications. For added security, a “key” switch is provided to enable or disable remote support and internet access swiftly, and it also functions as a firewall.

‘Significant fuel cost savings’

This innovative service was officially launched at the Nor-shipping event in Oslo, held from 6th-9th June. It offers an annual fee-based leasing model, which could include crew training, spare parts for the IG system, and regular system tune-ups to enhance fuel efficiency and increase system stability.

Øhrn concluded, “Our technicians can tune up the IG system remotely to stabilise the oxygen content,” noting that this could yield “significant fuel cost savings for each IG system.”

TT Club urges vigilance to prevent container ship fires

by Featured NewsPorts & MaritimeSafety

The freight transport and logistics insurance specialist insurer, TT Club has urged supply chain professionals and enforcement agencies to recognise the responsibility for mitigating container ship fires is shared by numerous entities involved from end to end of the entire global supply chain. 

With its estimated sixty-day average occurrence of serious fires being maintained by the Zim Charleston fire in August and the TSS Pearl in the Red Sea in early October, TT is once more calling for a more comprehensive approach to arresting the trend.

TT’s Peregrine Storrs-Fox explained: “There were significant lessons coming from the sad incident on the MSC Flaminia, which cost the lives of three seafarers, particularly from the subsequent legal proceedings that adjudged the shipper and NVOC responsible for root cause errors.

“Despite the biennial updates to the IMDG Code, including multiple arising from this particular incident, the judge’s assessment that the regulations merely set the ‘baseline’ for good practice remains utterly true today.”

The insurance provider advised that ensuring compliance with the latest mandatorily applicable version of the IMDG Code is essential as a minimum standard for all those shipping dangerous goods by sea. But the liability judgment in the MSC Flaminia case made it clear that regulations merely set the baseline. 

“This is an important statement to which any entity inclined to rely solely on the letter of the law when consigning dangerous goods, would do very well to pay heed,” said Storrs-Fox.

The firm is advocating for a comprehensive approach, striving to bring an understanding of all the factors contributing to these fires to everyone involved in the movement of cargo in containers and therefore underlining their responsibilities for safety, pointing out that Errors, misunderstandings, mis-declarations and inadequate packing and securing lie at the heart of many significant incidents, both at sea and in storage facilities.

TT said that the movement of cargo is initiated in the trading of goods – sellers and buyers – who instruct packers and whoever becomes the shipper, and that they have a duty of care as much as the packers, warehouse operators, forwarders, logistics companies, carriers of all modal types, cargo handlers and terminal operators.

The firm’s efforts to disseminate such awareness and knowledge have been long-standing and remain prolific.  Along with its sister insurer, the UK P&I Club it has recently up-dated its guideline publication, ‘Book it Right, Pack it Tight’, which provides key insights for all involved in dangerous goods’ shipments, including a clear exposé of the more technical aspects of the IMDG Code. Its aim is to influence higher standards of compliance by assisting all involved to understand their own duties and the duties of their contractual partners.

In addition, closely related to the issues specific to dangerous goods are the broader aspects of packing cargo in general. While the IMO/ILO/UNECE Code of Practice for Packing of Cargo Transport Units (CTU Code) remains non-mandatory international law, it is clearly referenced from the IMDG Code. Through its participation in the Cargo Integrity Group, TT has contributed to work on the ‘CTU Code – a quick guide’. Once more this has been recently updated and assists those responsible for packing containers, accurately declaring details of their contents in order to access the guidance contained in the voluminous CTU Code itself more easily.  There is also a useful Checklist of actions required, which along with the Quick Guide is available in multiple languages.

“The complexities of the global container trades increase rather than diminish,” added Storrs-Fox.  “No one entity can surmount the dangers of these horrific fires, as a consequence it is essential that the entirety of the risk faced should be embraced by all involved through the supply chain if they are to be successfully reduced.”

Read International Fire and Safety Journal’s recent article in partnership with Survitec on fire suppression systems on ships.