The causes and responses to cargo hold fire accidents in RoRo ships using AcciMap

The recent string of cargo hold fire incidents on RoRo ships represents one of the most challenging types of ship fire accidents. The densely stowed vehicle cargo loading structure and large volume of RoRo ship cargo holds are factors that complicate firefighting efforts. In addition, vehicle cargoes have a higher likelihood of self-ignition compared to other types of cargo and produce dense smoke when a fire occurs. Combustible materials inside vehicles can also contribute to the spread of fires after they start. Particularly, the recent increase in demand for electric vehicles calls for changes in how we respond to potential cargo hold fires on RoRo ships and heightens the risk of such incidents. In this study, we analyzed major domestic and international RoRo cargo hold fire incidents using AcciMap, a system analysis method. Through this analysis, we identified needs for improved management of vehicle cargo conditions, responses to fixed firefighting systems and system inspections, as well as improvements to fire detection systems. By using a systems analysis approach, we were able to identify areas for improvement needed by ships, ports, governments, shippers, and shipping companies.