A container ship owned by a member caught fire while waiting to enter harbour. The fire, which started in the engine room, spread rapidly to engulf the cargo areas and accommodation, but fortunately the crew (and the ship's dog!) were rescued unharmed. The fire was brought under control by local firefighters and rescue services, but continued to smoulder for several weeks. The member had over 400 containers on board and several items of handling equipment: all were constructive total losses. The Club adjusted the claim and reimbursed the member. There was no possibility of recourse.
Sources suggest that container fires may occur on a weekly basis and statistics indicate there is a major container cargo fire at sea roughly every 60 days. Tackling fires and subsequent investigations are complex activities.
When things go wrong, an incident occurs, there inevitably is a response. The degree of severity will generally be commensurate with the diligence in creating, documenting, reviewing, testing and communicating a response plan – hopefully.
The recent reports of container ship fires has once more focussed those in the container supply chain on safety issues related to the incorrect processing of dangerous goods. The nascent Cargo Integrity campaign initiated by the international transport and logistics insurer, TT Club has as a consequence gained renewed impetus.
