THE CMA CGM/ANL GROUP will discontinue bookings for shipments involving lithium-ion batteries co-packed with other hazardous goods, effective immediately.
The carriers say that in response to recent incidents, including fires and explosions involving lithium-ion batteries, they have re-assessed the risks associated with their transport: “Whether shipped independently or in combination with other dangerous goods, these batteries pose serious safety concerns for our crew, vessels, and overall operations.
“Although the IMDG code segregation table does not mandate this restriction, the CMA CGM/ANL Group has decided that the potential risks are too high when lithium-ion batteries (UN 3480) are packed with other hazardous materials.
“Effective immediately, CMA CGM/ANL group will no longer accept bookings for hazardous shipments where UN 3480 lithium-ion batteries are transported alongside the classes 1, 2.1, 3, 4, 5.2 and 7. However, UN 3480 may still be co-loaded with other items if declared and fully compliant with Special Provision 188.
“We appreciate your cooperation and commitment to ensure safety of our operations.”
Recent on-board fires and explosions believed to have involved lithium-ion batteries include those on YM Mobility in Ningbo, MSC Cape Town III in Colombo, Maersk Frankfurt off India, Genius Star XI off Alaska and the PCTCs Fremantle Highway and Felicity Ace on deepsea voyages.
