Unveiling the Ningbo Port Incident: Lessons in Safe Cargo Handling and Declaration

On August 9, 2024, a significant incident occurred at the bustling Ningbo-Zhoushan Port in China’s Zhejiang province. An explosion erupted from a misdeclared refrigerated container carrying hazardous materials, raising critical concerns about cargo safety and declaration practices in the maritime industry.

What Happened at Ningbo-Zhoushan Port?

The explosion was traced back to a refrigerated container erroneously utilized for transporting dangerous goods instead of a standard dry container. The shipping line involved revealed that the container’s contents included lithium batteries and tert-butyl peroxybenzoate, an organic compound known for its flammable and explosive properties. Notably, tert-butyl peroxybenzoate must be stored below 30°C (86°F) to prevent instability, a condition not met during transit, likely contributing to the incident.

Proper handling and declaration of hazardous materials are crucial for maritime safety.

Analyzing the Causes and Consequences

Initial investigations indicated that the shipper had incorrectly declared the cargo, labeling it under “dry and cool storage without the need for electrical supply”. This misdeclaration led to inappropriate storage conditions, ultimately causing thermal runaway in the lithium batteries and triggering the explosion.

Fortunately, the incident resulted in no injuries and did not cause substantial disruptions to major shipping lines operating through Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, the second busiest port in China by cargo throughput. However, the event underscores the latent risks associated with improper cargo declaration and handling, highlighting the need for stringent compliance and oversight.

Implications for Global Supply Chains and Maritime Safety

While the immediate physical impact was contained, such incidents have far-reaching implications:

• Operational Delays: Emergency responses and subsequent investigations can lead to temporary port closures, causing delays in cargo handling and shipment schedules.
• Financial Losses: Damages to goods, vessels, and infrastructure incur significant costs, alongside potential legal liabilities and increased insurance premiums.
• Environmental Risks: Explosions and fires can result in the release of hazardous substances, posing threats to marine and coastal ecosystems.
• Regulatory Scrutiny: Such events prompt stricter enforcement of shipping regulations and may lead to the introduction of more rigorous compliance requirements.

Ensuring Safety: Best Practices for Handling Hazardous Cargo

To prevent similar incidents, all stakeholders in the supply chain should commit to the following best practices:

1. Accurate Cargo Declaration: Provide detailed and truthful information about the nature, quantity, and handling requirements of all goods.
2. Appropriate Packaging and Labeling: Use suitable containers and clearly label hazardous materials according to international standards.
3. Compliance with Storage Conditions: Ensure that temperature and other environmental conditions meet the specific needs of the cargo throughout transit.
4. Employee Training: Regularly train staff on handling dangerous goods, emergency procedures, and compliance regulations.
5. Regular Inspections and Audits: Conduct routine checks to verify adherence to safety protocols and identify potential risks proactively.

Implementing comprehensive safety measures ensures secure and efficient maritime operations.

Our Commitment to Safe and Reliable Shipping

At Alow Forwarding, we prioritize safety and compliance in all our operations. We work closely with our clients and partners to ensure that all cargo is properly declared, handled, and transported according to the highest industry standards.

Our experienced team offers comprehensive support and guidance on shipping regulations, documentation, and best practices to mitigate risks and ensure the smooth flow of your goods across global markets.

Share this article