Charged Cargo: Tackling Lithium-Ion Battery Risks in Maritime Transport

The maritime industry is rapidly evolving to meet the growing demand for advanced energy solutions, particularly lithium-ion batteries. As these technologies become more prevalent, so do the risks associated with their transport. To maintain safe shipping practices and regulatory compliance, it is critical for organizations to stay informed about evolving safety standards and invest in ongoing employee training. 

Guiding maritime safety is the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, published by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), establishing mandatory global standards for the safe transport of dangerous goods by sea, including lithium-ion batteries, and serves as a foundational reference for organizations worldwide.

Building on this foundation, industry groups are providing additional guidance. In 2023, the global carrier Cargo Incident Notification System (CINS) released its “Lithium-Ion Batteries in Containers Guidelines (C-SAR 101-A),” aiming to raise awareness about the hazards posed by lithium-ion batteries in containers. These guidelines offer practical recommendations for identifying and mitigating risks. Ultimately promoting safer global transport. 
 

Key Insights Include:

• Hazardous properties of lithium-ion batteries
• Classification, labeling, documentation, and training
• Lithium battery test summaries (TS)
• Container packing and vessel stowage best practices
• Emergency response and operating procedures
• Fire detection and suppression procedures
• Holistic risk management and stakeholder collaboration

As the battery market continues to grow, so does the need for robust safety practices. CHEMTREC offers flexible online training tailored for professionals handling batteries and preparing goods for maritime transport, along with end-to-end support for test summary documentation and emergency response — so you can focus on safe and compliant transport. 
 

Do you need a battery test summary or have questions? We're here to help. Contact us today at https://www.chemtrec.com/request-quote.