How New Products and Cost Pressures Are Fueling Ship Fires
The shipping industry is facing a growing threat from cargo fires, with new types of goods and global demand for low-cost products adding to the risks.
At London International Shipping Week, experts warned that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are particularly vulnerable, as they often lack the same prevention and risk management resources as larger companies.
Many of today’s fire hazards come from products that barely featured in the cargo mix a decade ago. Biomass products such as bulk wood pulp, for instance, can generate condensation, leading to self-heating and ignition if not handled correctly.
Lithium-ion batteries – already infamous in shipping circles – continue to be a top concern, frequently implicated in incidents where poor packaging, faulty design, or misdeclaration plays a role.
China, the world’s manufacturing hub, has been singled out as a major contributor to the problem. While the country supplies affordable goods to markets worldwide, experts suggest that cost pressures can sometimes lead to manufacturing shortcuts. Poorly made or mislabeled dangerous goods pose a heightened threat when shipped in bulk.
Adding to the challenge is the issue of misdeclaration. Faced with higher transport costs for hazardous materials, some shippers deliberately conceal the true nature of their cargo according to one speaker, bypassing safety protocols and increasing the risk of onboard fires.
The scale of the problem is significant. In 2024 alone, 250 ship fires were reported – a 20% increase from the previous year. Each incident not only endangers crew, cargo, and vessels but also has far-reaching implications for insurers, regulators, and supply chains worldwide.
As risks evolve, so too must the industry’s approach to dangerous goods transport. Specialist knowledge, strict compliance with international regulations, and rigorous safety practices are essential to reducing fire incidents at sea.
Evolution Forwarding provides end-to-end solutions for the safe and compliant transport of dangerous goods by air, sea, and road. From packaging and documentation to regulatory compliance and staff training, our expertise helps shippers navigate these challenges with confidence. Contact us at info@evolutionforwarding.com or call 0800 4346244 to learn more.
