Transport Malta MSIU issued an investigation report on the cargo explosion onboard a container ship while underway in February 2020. The investigation established that flammable vapours had accumulated inside the container, which contained scrap metal and used car parts, resulting in an explosive atmosphere.
The Incident
Whilst Singapore, underway towards an explosion occurred in cargo hold no. 7 of the container ship. A fire party was immediately mustered by the master to assess the situation inside the cargo hold.
An inspection of the area revealed that an explosion had occurred inside one of the containers stowed in the cargo hold, damaging five other containers and several ship fittings. The charterers were contacted, following which it was confirmed that no other explosion risks were foreseen. The cargo manifest revealed that the container carried scrap metal and used car parts. The MSIU concluded that flammable vapours had accumulated inside, resulting in an explosive atmosphere.
Considering the actions taken by Company and the vessel’s charterers, no recommendations have been made.
Safety actions taken
During the safety investigation, the Company contacted the charterers to inquire on the steps that would be taken to prevent reoccurrence of such accidents. By means of a circular, the Charterers drew the attention of their shippers to their cargo policies, which addressed measures to be followed when classifying used auto parts commodities/components. Furthermore, it raised awareness on the importance of making a correct declaration for used auto parts, making specific reference to the accident involving Croatia.
Recommendations
In view of the safety actions taken by the Company and their charterers, no safety recommendations were made.
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Source: Transport Malta
