The World Shipping Council (WSC) has launched its Cargo Safety Programme to reduce fires and accidents caused by mis-declared cargo, protecting crews, vessels, and the environment. The programme is designed to tackle one of the shipping industry’s most persistent risks: the incorrect or intentional mis-declaration of dangerous goods, which has been a major contributor to ship fires in recent years.
The initiative combines standard inspections with an AI-powered screening tool developed by the National Cargo Bureau (NCB), aiming to prevent incidents before they occur.
The system scans millions of bookings in real time, identifying patterns and shipments that may pose a risk. Using keyword searches and AI-driven algorithms, the tool flags potential hazards, enabling carriers to carry out further verification through targeted physical inspections when necessary. The programme also establishes common inspection standards and incorporates lessons from past incidents to improve prevention.
According to the WSC, carriers representing over 70% of global container capacity have joined the initiative. The International Group of P&I Clubs has endorsed the programme, highlighting its potential to protect seafarers and ensure the safe transport of containerised cargo.
