Hazardous container leaks present significant risks in maritime shipping, with over 5 million containers carrying Dangerous Goods (DG) annually. As the shipping industry grows, challenges with proper packaging and stowing of these goods become more pronounced.
Recent inspections by the National Cargo Bureau revealed that 57% of DG inspections were non-compliant, with one-third of failures attributed to inadequate securing. Additionally, the Cargo Incident Notification System reported leakages as one of the most common incidents.
The consequences of hazardous leaks can be catastrophic. A recent incident involving a leak of nitric acid culminated in a fire, resulting in severe environmental damage and total loss of the vessel and cargo.
Thankfully, the crew escaped unharmed, though an investigation pointed to missed opportunities for proactive measures that could have contained the spill. Notably, nitric acid is classified as a corrosive substance and presents various risks, including the release of explosive hydrogen gas when in contact with metals.
Timely response is crucial when dealing with such leaks. Delays in action can escalate the problem, particularly if shore authorities or charterers are slow to respond.
In one case, a vessel faced obstacles when attempting to manage a leaking container, leading to visible fumes and necessitating a week-long wait before entering port for discharge. To effectively manage hazardous leaks, crews must have immediate access to all essential DG information, including stow location and emergency contacts.
The IMDG Code recommends careful measures to address spills and ensure crew safety. Good communication among shipowners, charters, and authorities is vital to handle incidents efficiently and may require expert assistance to mitigate risks.
In cases of leaks at sea, quick decision-making may be necessary to divert to a suitable location for containment. Gard emphasizes the importance of acting swiftly and consulting with experienced resources to manage hazardous cargo situations.