Ym-Mobility Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

The China Maritime Safety Administration (CMSA) has officially unveiled the findings from its investigation into the catastrophic explosion and fire aboard the 'YM Mobility', which transpired on August 9, 2024, at Ningbo Port. The incident was traced back to a container filled with hazardous materials located near the ship's bow. In its report, the CMSA disclosed that the reefer container housed tert-Butyl peroxybenzoate (TBPB), a thermally unstable substance that can self-decompose at ambient temperatures, resulting in significant heat generation and the release of gas or vapor. Alarmingly, this reefer unit, instead of being reliant on a power connection, was improperly utilized as a substitute for a dry container, severely compromising its heat dissipation capacity. The heat buildup from the self-decomposing TBPB ultimately triggered a thermal runaway, culminating in the explosion and inferno. The investigation highlights that the event coincided with an unusual spike in summer temperatures in Shanghai, where the product was packaged, as daytime highs soared to 40 degrees Celsius between July 25 and August 9. Further scrutiny revealed that the operator neglected to implement adequate precautionary measures while reviewing the cargo transportation plan. They particularly failed to carry out a comprehensive safety assessment regarding the stability of the cargo and the potential risk of thermal runaway, taking into consideration factors such as elevated external temperatures, thermal insulation of the unplugged reefer, and the possibility of cargo self-separation. The operator's agreement to utilize the unplugged reefer for transporting dangerous goods without accounting for internal temperature fluctuations further compounded the risks. Fortunately, the CMSA reported that there were no irregularities in other phases of the cargo transportation process. Conclusively, the investigation attributed responsibility for the disastrous event to both the operator and the shipper.

In a significant development following the fire on the 'YM Mobility' at Ningbo Port on August 9, 2024, Yang Ming has announced a General Average declaration on August 18, 2024. This action aims to protect the collective interests of the vessel, cargo owners, and all stakeholders involved. To manage the situation, Yang Ming has engaged the expertise of Richards Hogg Lindley as the adjuster, in accordance with the York Antwerp Rules. Fortunately, the fire has been contained, and efforts to ascertain the root cause will be conducted by independent third-party professionals. In a proactive response to ensure the safety of the vessel and its adjoining environment, Yang Ming has coordinated with port authorities for the unloading and transshipment of the onboard cargo. The timeline for cargo delivery and release will be communicated by the adjuster. Stakeholders looking for more information can reach out to the adjuster at YMM-casualty@rhl-ct.com. Additionally, Yang Ming's sales representatives are on hand to provide updates to the affected customers.

A troubling incident occurred on August 9, when the container ship 'YM Mobility' experienced an explosion attributed to lithium batteries. The explosion, which resulted from excessive heat development, took place in Ningbo. Following this event, the Taiwanese shipping firm Yang Ming issued a statement on August 10, indicating that a preliminary investigation confirmed the explosion resulted from a container carrying hazardous materials aboard the vessel. As of August 10, officials reported there were no visible flames on the ship, and firefighting efforts included ongoing cooling operations using water sprays. Representatives from Protection & Indemnity Clubs, Classification Societies, and marine surveyors have mobilized to the site to assist with the investigation alongside local authorities. Meanwhile, Yang Ming's technical team has been on standby 24/7 to evaluate the fire's impact and the seaworthiness of 'YM Mobility.' Once the situation is stabilized, the company plans to assess the potential for vessel repairs, cargo transshipment, and schedule revisions.