Circular 15/25: Understanding potentially explosive hazards of Coal Shipments from the USA

This circular is to draw attention to incidents of concern regarding shipments of coal from North-East Coast USA.

Incidents have involved explosions resulting in the displacement/removal of hatch covers.

The US Coast Guard issued a Marine Safety Alert in February 2025 highlighting some of the issues: (https://www.dco.uscg.mil/Portals/9/DCO%20Documents/5p/CG-5PC/INV/Alerts/USCGSA_0725.pdf)

The issues are complex, and incidents remain under investigation.

This circular is not therefore intended to provide views or guidance on issues arising in the USCG alert.

The purpose of this circular is to raise awareness given the potential for harm to people and the environment.

It is also to recommend that members contact their Clubs if they plan to fix or charter a ship to load coal from the North-East Coast USA, or where under an existing fixture a ship is ordered to load such cargo.

This will enable the Clubs to provide Members with relevant information to understand and manage the risks.

Given the complexities this may involve a recommendation that members seek expert advice.

 

All Clubs in the International Group have issued similar circulars.