RISK WATCH FEBRUARY 2024 SAFE CARRIAGE OF ALTERNA TIVE FUEL VEHICLES AD VICE PREVENTATIVE MEASURES OPERATING IN AREAS WITH GEOPOLITICAL TENSIONS AI IN SHIPPING PEME BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES WINDASSISTED PROPULSION CARRIAGE OF ENERGY STORAGE UNITS LATEST TECHNOLOGIES FOR CARGO SHIPS LITHIUMION BATTERIES MARITIME DRUG SMUGGLING IN BRAZIL CLAIMS AND LEGAL IMPORTANT CASES DISCUSSED BRITANNIA GROUP INTRODUCES ‘YOUR EX CELLENT HEALTH SERVICE’ A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR RISK WATCH | FEBRUARY 2024 We hope you enjoy this copy of Risk Watch. We will be looking for ways to maintain and increase the usefulness, relevance and general interest of the articles. If you have any ideas or comments please send them to: britanniacommunications@tindallriley.com Welcome to the first edition of Risk Watch for 2024. In this issue, we are pleased to introduce 'Your Excellent Health Service' (YEHS), our new PEME consultant dedicated to evaluating crew fitness and prioritising workforce wellbeing. Our loss prevention team offers valuable insights on navigating areas with ongoing geopolitical tensions and ensuring the secure transportation of liquefied natural gas-fuelled vehicles. Additionally, they delve into the realm of innovative wind-assisted cargo ships, exploring cutting-edge technologies that contribute to sustainable shipping practices. This edition also explores the carriage of energy storage units on bulk carriers, providing valuable insights and advice for shipowners. Shifting our focus to the dynamic landscape of artificial intelligence, we highlight its transformative impact on the industry and emphasise the importance of a holistic approach. Combining AI-based systems with robust human oversight and ethical considerations is crucial to mitigate the associated risks and unlock the full potential of AI implementation. We also address the complex and evolving issue of drug smuggling in Brazil, providing preventative measures and advice for vessels calling at ports in the country. To wrap up, we present our regular legal update, shedding light on significant legal cases impacting the maritime sector. Jessie Dunn Editor | 1 Charles Cooper Loss Prevention Manager, London lossprevention@tindallriley.com SAFE CARRIAGE OF LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS FUELLED VEHICLES Consider the following important factors when carrying LNG fuelled vehicles on board: ● If LNG leaks, it can rapidly develop vapour clouds that can easily catch fire ● LNG is stored at very cold temperatures and contact with LNG or cold surfaces can cause cryogenic or freeze burns ● Relief valve and ventilation measures may be necessary during the voyage to address the potential rise in pressure inside the tank. Establishing holding time is essential to prevent the LNG vehicle from producing flammable gases or vapours ● Secure the cargo in accordance with the on board Cargo Securing Manual (CSM) and the Cargo Stowage and Securing (CSS) Code Appendix ● The shipper must provide detailed transport instructions, covering handling, additional lashing and securing requirements, and emergency protocols ● Crew members and personnel involved in handling LNG powered vehicles should undergo specialised training to understand the unique characteristics and handling of LNG as a fuel, along with emergency response protocols ● The ship must carry adequate emergency response equipment, including personal protective gear, firefighting equipment, and spill response kits Shipowners requiring any further guidance are adv