Maersk Line has been working with classification society ABS to increase safety in relation to the stowage of dangerous cargoes following the fatal fire of the Maersk Honam.
ABS led a workshop to identify hazards associated with dangerous goods stowage on a range of containership designs, many which are not fully addressed by the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code.
“The risks associated with cargo carried on ships can have serious impacts on the safety of the crew and the ship itself if not properly identified and managed,” said Bret Montaruli, ABS vice president and chief engineer.
The outcome of the workshop will include recommendations to improve stowage planning and hazard mitigation, leading to better management of risks.
Dangerous cargoes on fire on containerships are a serious issue as was all too clearly when the 2017-built, 15,262 teu Maersk Honam hit by a massive blaze on 6 March 900 nm southeast of Salalah, Oman, which left five dead from a crew of 27.
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