(www.MaritimeCyprus.com) The maritime industry is currently witnessing a transformative shift as Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs) and Electric Vehicles (EVs) move from niche markets to mainstream adoption. However, this transition brings a unique set of safety challenges that require immediate and structured attention.

The Core Safety Concerns

The urgency surrounding AFVs on ships stems from three primary factors:

• Rapid Fleet Expansion: The sheer volume of AFVs and EVs being transported globally has grown exponentially, outpacing traditional safety protocols.

• Unique Fire Risks: Unlike internal combustion engines, AFVs (particularly those with lithium-ion batteries) present risks such as thermal runaway, which can lead to intense, self-sustaining fires.

• Predictability Gaps: There is still significant uncertainty regarding the fire characteristics of these vehicles, including the release of toxic gases and the difficulty of suppression using standard maritime equipment.

A Strategic Framework for Carriage

As both passenger and cargo vessels increasingly integrate these vehicles into their manifests, a "one-size-fits-all" approach to safety is no longer sufficient. This Guidance provides a specialized framework tailored to the specific design and operational nuances of different vessel classes.

Chapter 2: Ro-Ro Passenger Ships

This section focuses on the complexities of "ferry-style" operations. Key considerations include:

• High-density passenger environments.

• Rapid loading/unloading cycles.

• Safety protocols for public vehicle decks where non-professional drivers are present.

Chapter 3: Ro-Ro Cargo & Dedicated Vehicle Carriers

This chapter addresses the industrial scale of vehicle transport, focusing on:

• Large-scale stowage on specialized vehicle carriers (PCC/PCTC).

• Professional cargo handling and long-haul monitoring.

• Vessel-specific fire detection and heavy-duty suppression systems.

Mission and Objectives

This Guidance was meticulously developed to serve as a cornerstone for national authorities, shipowners, and maritime stakeholders. Our primary objective is to bridge the gap between emerging automotive technology and maritime safety standards.

By following these protocols, the industry can ensure that the carriage of AFVs is conducted with the highest regard for crew safety, vessel integrity, and environmental protection, mitigating the risk of catastrophic incidents at sea.

Click below to download the full guide paper:

Source: EMSA

See also:

Maritime risk Focus: Car Carriers, Ro-Ro and Ro-Pax Ship Safety – A Guide for Crew