Transport Malta has issued guidance to Maltese-registered vessels regarding the potential fire hazards associated with Lithium-ion (Li-ion) cells and batteries. The Marine Safety Investigation Unit (MSIU) has issued a safety alert after being notified of several fires on board yachts and cargo vessels associated with Li-ion batteries.
The statement highlights the ‘fierce intensity’ of Li-ion battery fires, and also the potential challenges to control and extinguish them with the use of conventional fire-extinguishing systems.
Owners and managers of Maltese-registered vessels must ensure that the procurement of Li-ion batteries intended for a vessel’s use includes safety and technical data on:
– protection, handling, safe use, safe storage, and safe disposal;
– fault/failure detection and required actions;
– and suppressing, extinguishing and post-fire management.
All concerned are strongly recommended to bring this Notice from Transport Malta to the attention of all crew serving on board Maltese-registered vessels and follow the recommendations contained therein.
Download the safety alert: MSIU Safety Alert 01/2022