Hamburg, Germany — The International Union of Marine Insurers (IUMI) has issued a new advisory, highlighting the increased risk of explosions for operators of Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs) and ropax vessels during electric vehicle (EV) fires, an issue that has been less scrutinized until now.
Electric vehicle fires have long posed challenges for roll-on/roll-off (ro/ro) operators. Many have opted to prohibit these vehicles on board due to the inherent dangers. EV battery systems can ignite on their own if they overheat or if an internal malfunction occurs. They can also catch fire due to heat from nearby burning vehicles, causing significant hazards once thermal runaway begins. This process results in intense flames that are difficult to extinguish and releases toxins that complicate firefighting efforts, especially in confined areas like ro/ro decks.
To address these fiery threats, many in the maritime industry have modified their firefighting tactics, emphasizing the need to quickly shut off ventilation and deploy fixed CO2 systems to suppress fires. IUMI supports this approach, asserting that operators should prioritize fixed firefighting measures rather than relying solely on manual methods. Timeliness is critical, as delays could enable the fire to escalate and disable firefighting equipment, leading to disastrous outcomes.
However, this immediate response also introduces its own set of risks, according to IUMI. The gases emitted from compromised EV battery packs can be highly explosive when mixed with air. Research indicates that EV fires can produce gas concentrations as high as 30% hydrogen, creating an explosive environment if these gases accumulate in enclosed spaces. The initial strategy to cut off ventilation before CO2 is introduced can inadvertently trap these flammable gases, heightening explosion risks.
“A thorough firefighting strategy must encompass both firefighting tactics and the management of the explosive gases that may form,” IUMI stated. The organization advises shipowners to thoughtfully evaluate ventilation procedures in relation to the installed firefighting systems and the specific characteristics of their vessels.
Modern PCTCs present additional challenges due to their open deck configurations. Unlike traditional vessels, these carriers lack bulkheads that segment the deck, which can exacerbate fire spread and alter stability dynamics. Water used for firefighting on a PCTC can diminish tire traction, increasing the likelihood of cargo shifting, which could lead to dangerous tilting or capsizing. IUMI accentuates that any water used for boundary cooling should be minimally applied and only under calm conditions to avoid compromising the vessel’s stability.
With the rise in EV usage and transportation, the maritime industry is tasked with continually adapting to new risks. IUMI’s updated guidance serves as a critical reminder that safety measures must evolve in tandem with technological advancements to safeguard both assets and human life at sea. As operators navigate these complex challenges, a comprehensive approach to fire safety — one that incorporates innovative firefighting and ventilation strategies — has never been more essential.