The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) is urging stronger safety measures after a crew member was seriously injured aboard the bulk carrier Golden Zhejiang’s lifeboat in 2023. The TSB highlights the need for proper procedures for risk assessments, equipment-specific training, and a safety management system supported by a mature safety culture with a trusted process for communication between crew and shore personnel to prevent accidental lifeboat releases. Continue reading “TSB Canada highlights importance of safeguards to prevent accidental lifeboat releases”
Health & Safety
MTF issues guidelines on alternative qualitative fuel risk assessments
The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) has revealed new guidelines for conducting alternative qualitative fuel risk assessments for alternative fuelled ships: HAZID and HAZOP.
The use of alternative fuels will be key to addressing the 2023 IMO Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships. While IMO has developed guidelines for design and operation of ships capable of using them, the Alternative Design and Approval process is required for most alternative fuels until mandatory regulations are in place. Continue reading “MTF issues guidelines on alternative qualitative fuel risk assessments”
Surge in EV transportation exposes gaps in maritime safety rules procurement
Industry experts have said the rapid rise in EV (electric Vehicle) transportation exposes gaps in maritime safety rules, says Steam Marine Technical.
High-profile shipboard fires involving EVs, such as those on the Felicity Ace, Morning Midas and the Freemantle Highway, have highlighted the dangers and significant risks. While lithium-ion battery fires and thermal runaway events aren’t always the initial cause, they significantly escalate onboard fires when EVs are involved, yet current International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations don’t adequately address this risk. Whilst the IMO develops updated guidelines, comprehensive regulations specific to EV transport aren’t expected until at least 2028. Continue reading “Surge in EV transportation exposes gaps in maritime safety rules procurement”
Lloyd’s Register alert on steam systems and steam hammer risks
Lloyd’s Register (LR) have shared an investigation report into two fatalities which resulted from the catastrophic failure of a bellow type expansion fitting on a steam system pipeline on a LR class vessel. There have also been other steam systems and steam hammer risks this year which resulted in accidents.
Subsequent random inspection of vessels with similar expansion fittings as part of their steam piping system have highlighted the following issues: Continue reading “Lloyd’s Register alert on steam systems and steam hammer risks”
Product safety report for Mercury Marine 450R and 500R outboard motors
The UK Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued a product safety report for two models of Mercury Marine 450R and 500R outboard motors.
The reason for the recall is that these outboard motors present a risk of injuries as users could trap their fingers in the top cowl air vents during use. The products do not meet the requirements of the Recreational Craft Regulations 2017. Continue reading “Product safety report for Mercury Marine 450R and 500R outboard motors”
ClassNK publishes Guidelines for Onboard CO2 Capture and Storage Systems
ClassNK has released second edition of “Guidelines for Onboard CO2 Capture and Storage Systems”. It assumes onboard CO2 capture systems (OCCS) use of a membrane separation method which are expected to be applicable to a wide variety of vessel types. The guidelines can support the safety development, manufacturing, and installation of relevant systems.
Not only fuel transition, but interest in capturing CO2 from ships’ exhaust gas is growing as a way to reduce GHG emissions. Development of onboard systems for capturing and storing CO2 is also being carried out. Continue reading “ClassNK publishes Guidelines for Onboard CO2 Capture and Storage Systems”
DNV: Deficiencies in CO2 fire-extinguishing systems
DNV has recently identified cases of deficiencies in CO2 fire-extinguishing systems that had multiple depleted CO₂ cylinders, potentially compromising fire safety and vessel integrity. More about this below. Continue reading “DNV: Deficiencies in CO2 fire-extinguishing systems”
MIT Maritime Consortium releases “first-of-its kind” guide for design safety of nuclear ships
A guide for design safety of nuclear ships has been released by the MIT Maritime Consortium, aims to set the standard for safe maritime nuclear propulsion.
The “first-of-its-kind” handbook serves as a guide for design safety for civilian nuclear ships.
Using research data and standards, combined with operational experiences during civilian maritime nuclear operations, the handbook provides unique insights into potential issues and resolutions in the design efficacy of maritime nuclear operations, a topic of growing importance on the national and international stage. Continue reading “MIT Maritime Consortium releases “first-of-its kind” guide for design safety of nuclear ships”
Ship to Ship Transfer Guide for Petroleum, Chemicals and Liquefied Gases update published
The Chemical Distribution Institute (CDI), International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) and the Society of International Gas Tanker and Terminal Operators (SIGTTO) have released the second edition of ‘Ship to Ship Transfer Guide for Petroleum, Chemicals and Liquefied Gases’.
Originally published by OCIMF in 1975, the STS Transfer Guide was consolidated in 2013 through the combined expertise of CDI, ICS, OCIMF and SIGTTO. Recognised globally by the tanker industry and IMO Member States as the definitive reference for safe and effective STS operations, this new second joint edition, released in the 50th anniversary, reflects current best practices, regulatory developments and technical innovations. Continue reading “Ship to Ship Transfer Guide for Petroleum, Chemicals and Liquefied Gases update published”
Key considerations for mitigating accidents during fumigation
Gard P&I Club has provided key recommendations to mitigating accidents during fumigation operations, especially while in transit. Fumigation of cargo holds using aluminium phosphide tablets, which release phosphine gas, is essential to protect products from infestation and ensure they arrive in good condition. The heavier-than-air phosphine gas penetrates the cargo to eliminate insects and pests.
However, according to Gard, despite the existence of industry best practice recommendations, fumigation-related incidents continue to occur. While it remains uncertain how many fatalities could have been prevented through stricter adherence to the current IMO guidance, many incidents have been linked to the absence of vessel-specific procedures, underestimation or lack of awareness of the risks involved, or decisions influenced by commercial pressures. Continue reading “Key considerations for mitigating accidents during fumigation”
Beware of the fire risks in scrap metal cargoes
NorthStandard P&I Club has issued guidance on the rising fire risks associated with scrap metal cargoes, particularly those coming from East Coast USA and Ghent, Belgium. They highlight the need for strict vigilance.
Scrap metal cargoes: Follow the code
‘SCRAP METAL’ is a bulk cargo shipping name (BCSN) found in the IMSBC Code. It is a Group C cargo but it must not contain fine metal turnings known as ‘swarf’. If it does contain swarf, then it would likely fall under the schedule Continue reading “Beware of the fire risks in scrap metal cargoes”
Guidelines for the safe inspection of methanol dual-fuel ships
The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) has issued new guidelines for the safe inspection of methanol dual-fuel ships. As the maritime industry accelerates its transition to alternative fuels under increasingly stringent IMO emission regulations, methanol as fuel has emerged as a particularly attractive option, as documented by the increasing number of orders.
However, according to the Maritime Technologies Forum, methanol’s unique properties, including its flammability, toxicity, and corrosivity, present distinct challenges for ship inspectors and surveyors.
Continue reading “Guidelines for the safe inspection of methanol dual-fuel ships”