(www.MaritimeCyprus.com) The tragic and escalating frequency of catastrophic fires on vessels carrying lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries—whether in electric vehicles (EVs) or as standalone cargo—has forced the global maritime industry into a state of urgent crisis. This pivotal publication from the Maritime Professional Council of the UK directly addresses this lethal threat, moving beyond general warnings to provide a deep, essential dive into the mechanics of thermal runaway, the profound difficulties in current firefighting methods, and the "eye-watering" financial devastation resulting from these incidents. Since the widespread adoption of Li-ion technology in the marine sector is inevitable, the industry can no longer afford to delay; this guidance serves as a critical call to action for regulators, insurers, and vessel operators to immediately adopt new, robust protocols for cargo handling, fire mitigation, and crew training to prevent further loss of life and property at sea.
This one-off publication provides essential guidance and best practices regarding the dangers of lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries following a spate of catastrophic events in the marine industry, affecting both large ships carrying electric vehicles (EVs) and smaller pleasure craft.
Thermal Runaway & Explosion Risk:
While Li-ion batteries are statistically less likely to start a fire than conventional sources, the resulting conflagration is far more deadly. The core hazard is thermal runaway—a catastrophic, self-sustaining overheating that is hard to stop and can generate large volumes of highly toxic, flammable, and explosive gases (including Hydrogen, Carbon Monoxide, and Hydrogen Fluoride).
Extinguishing Difficulty:
There remains "no effective and reliable means" of easily putting out a Li-ion fire, leading to vessels being ablaze for extended periods and often resulting in total loss.
Financial Impact:
The devastation and consequential costs are "eye watering," creating huge insurance claims that are now financially burdening P&I clubs as they grapple with the situation.
Urgent Need for Action:
Since the technology is widespread in everyday life and its use in the marine sector is only accelerating, the industry is far down the road to stopping its adoption. Therefore, the primary aim of this publication is to educate the global maritime sector and highlight the urgent challenges facing regulators and authorities, emphasizing the need for new cargo handling protocols, updated fire mitigation strategies, and improved crew training.
You can download below the Guide from the Maritime Professional Council of the UK:
Source: Maritime Professional Council of the UK
Find more Guidance and Loss Prevention papers on Lithium-Ion batteries HERE
