Lithium-ion batteries on board ships
Lithium-ion batteries have become an integral part of our everyday lives – they are found in e-bikes, laptops, smartphones and electric vehicles. At the same time, they pose a significant fire hazard. This is particularly problematic on the high seas: a ship fire is difficult to control because rescue services cannot be on the scene immediately. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and many national authorities have therefore developed strict regulations for the transport of lithium-ion batteries.
Why are lithium-ion batteries dangerous on ships?
Lithium-ion batteries can go into what is known as ‘thermal runaway’ if they are handled incorrectly, damaged or overheated. This causes the temperature to rise to several hundred degrees Celsius within a very short time. The consequences can be:
- Fires that spread rapidly.
- Smoke development that releases toxic gases.
- Explosions if the gas pressure cannot escape.
On cruises, the following usually applies: bicycles, e-bikes and other electrically powered two-wheelers and motorcycles of any kind are not permitted on board. In order not to disturb fellow passengers, the use of roller skates, inline skates, skateboards, scooters, hoverboards, airwheels, Segways, audio devices with loudspeakers and electric and battery-powered means of transport is also not permitted on board. These items must be stored in your cabin during the cruise. This does not apply to medically necessary mobility aids, which may be used on board if required.
The transport of electric vehicles (EVs) is particularly critical. Many shipping companies have developed their own safety concepts for this – such as special parking spaces, temperature monitoring or strict loading requirements. In the event of a fire, electric cars are difficult to extinguish. Due to the fire hazard, a Norwegian shipping company even prohibits e-vehicles on its ferries.
Protective measures for transport by sea
Despite the risks, there are ways to increase safety in maritime transport:
- Limit charge level: Batteries should not be fully charged, but shipped with a reduced charge level. The charge level should generally not exceed 30% during transport in order to minimise risk.
- Use early detection: Thermal imaging cameras, smoke and gas sensors, and video surveillance help to detect anomalies in good time.
- Train crew: Onboard personnel must know how to deal with battery fires – and how to evacuate in an emergency.
- Emergency equipment: Special extinguishing agents such as water mist or fireproof containers must be available on ships.
- Cooling instead of extinguishing: A burning battery is almost impossible to extinguish. Instead, it is crucial to cool the surrounding area and allow the battery to burn out in a controlled manner.
Some insurance companies now require additional proof of safety measures before covering shipments containing lithium-ion batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries are not prohibited on ships per se, but are considered sensitive dangerous goods worldwide. Although the risks can be reduced through proper packaging, monitoring and emergency plans, transport remains challenging. The combination of large quantities of batteries, limited extinguishing capabilities and the remoteness of the sea makes lithium-ion batteries one of the biggest safety challenges in modern shipping.
Anyone who needs to store or transport lithium batteries privately or commercially can use fireproof battery containers. These ensure that even in an emergency, fires do not spread uncontrollably.
