SIMIC

THE World Shipping Council (WSC) has launched an initiative to create a shared user tool to address the persistent issue of misdeclared cargo within the shipping industry, reports Fort Lauderdale's Maritime Executive.

This problem remains a significant contributor to maritime accidents.



While many shipping companies have developed their own approaches and solutions for handling misdeclared cargo, such as implementing additional fees and utilizing AI-based systems, the absence of a universal industry tool continues to expose shippers to the dangers posed by undeclared, inaccurately declared, or incorrectly labelled hazardous cargo.



Such cargo has frequently been the root cause of fires and explosions, resulting in harm or even fatalities among vessel crews.



Data reveals a troubling increase in container ship fires over the past decade, with a noteworthy number leading to casualties and complete losses.



According to the 2023 Allianz Safety and Shipping Review, there have been 64 reported fires on containerships in the last five years, and the TT Club estimates that a serious ship fire occurs approximately every sixty days.



One significant contributing factor to these fires is the presence of hazardous cargo that has not been declared, misdeclared, or appropriately packed.



In 2022, incidents of fires at sea surged by more than 17 per cent compared to the previous year.



In response to this recurring issue, the WSC has developed a collaborative digital tool for cargo screening and inspections, named the Cargo Safety Programme.



This solution is designed to build upon the screening procedures and policies already in use by shipping carriers.



It will combine a common screening tool with a verified shipper database and a roster of approved container inspection companies.



The digital tool will be provided and operated by an impartial third-party vendor and adopted by all WSC members.



Its primary function will involve screening booking information against an extensive keyword library and risk algorithm. Bookings deemed high-risk will be flagged for further scrutiny and potential inspection.



"A common industry approach to cargo safety will create a safer working environment not only for ship crews but for everyone involved in inland transport or working in ports and terminals, as well as for the communities around us," said WSC CEO John Butler.



"For shippers, it will make ocean transport more efficient and dependable, by stopping dangerous shipments that can disrupt the supply chain."