React Fire Risks Workshop

A Practical, Forward-Looking Approach to Address Fire-Fighting Risks

At the UK Club, we understand the paramount importance of proactive measures in mitigating potential hazards, especially those related to evolving risks, such as cargo fires.

Understanding the Challenge

The marine industry is facing a significant challenge in responding to cargo fires. These fires are no longer rare anomalies; they are a growing and complex threat. Recent incidents have highlighted the urgent need for thorough reviews of equipment and procedures to effectively address such incidents on board, and particularly on container ships and vehicle carrier vessels.

The increase in ship sizes and the larger volumes of cargo, including dangerous goods, being carried on board at a time, complicates the fire response. Additionally, certain cargoes are known to make fire-fighting more difficult and complex. The latest such trend involves the increased volume of cargo related to renewable energy technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries.

Extensive research, by various industry stake holders, is underway to tackle the multifaceted aspects of these risks. Among others, the UK Club, TT Club, and Brookes Bell have published a whitepaper on the transportation of lithium-ion batteries.

Crew Training Gap

In this changing environment, one critical area that demands attention is crew training in handling cargo fire emergencies. Through our various loss prevention initiatives, we frequently meet and engage in discussions with crew members. A common theme that emerges from these discussions is the crew members' lack of confidence in their ability to combat cargo fires effectively.

Our Initiative

In response to this pressing need, we have partnered with React Emergency Response, who possess a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to responding to ship fires. Together with React Emergency Response, we have launched a series of workshops tailored specifically for our Members. These workshops focus on:

• Risk Awareness: Understanding the unique risks associated with cargo fires.
• Best Practices in Emergency Response: Equipping crew members with the necessary skills and knowledge and building their confidence to effectively respond to complex fire incidents.

This safety initiative, which is free for UK Club Members, explores the practical issues related to marine fire-fighting. It delves into real-world case studies and shares best practices for emergency preparedness and response. Participants engage in scenario-based discussions and gain insights into how to adapt safety protocols to meet the evolving risks during a fire-fighting response.

The workshops are designed for superintendents, DPAs, HSQE/HSSE professionals and/or senior crew training officers.