• Industry News
  • October 7, 2025
maritime security

Li-ion Fire Risks at Sea

Introduction

The maritime industry is facing a growing onboard hazard: lithium-ion battery fires. As these batteries become more common in cargo, power systems, and electric vehicles, understanding and containing thermal runaway risks has become critical for mariners and fleet operators.

Industry context

Li-ion fires challenge traditional maritime security structures. Incidents can escalate at sea, affecting both crew safety and asset integrity. Unlike piracy or smuggling, these fires are internal risks that demand robust onboard vigilance and protocol integration—especially for ISPS Code compliance, emergency routing responses, and vessel protection strategies. These hazards must now feature prominently in any comprehensive maritime risk assessment.

Practical measures

  • Conduct regular fire drills focused on lithium-ion scenarios and thermal runaway response.
  • Install and maintain heat detection and suppression systems suitable for battery fires.
  • Implement SOPs for handling and stowing battery-powered cargo and onboard EVs.
  • Incorporate Li-ion fire risk in onboard crew safety awareness training programmes.
  • Leverage threat intelligence to inform route planning and contingency preparation.

Further resources

MS Security Group offers tailored solutions for battery-related fire threats and other onboard hazards. Learn more on our services overview page, or explore our broader capabilities.

Source

Original article: Splash247 – Getting Practical on Li-ion Fire Safety at Sea

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