The World Shipping Council (WSC) has launched a global Cargo Safety Programme aimed at reducing ship fires caused by mis declared or undeclared dangerous goods—a major threat to maritime logistics. The initiative will be rolled out worldwide by ocean carriers to protect crews, vessels, cargo, and the marine environment.

Central to the programme is an AI-powered cargo screening tool developed by the National Cargo Bureau. The system scans millions of cargo bookings in real-time, utilizing keyword searches, trade pattern analysis, and advanced algorithms to identify potential high-risk shipments. Carriers will then review flagged cargo and, when necessary, subjected it to physical inspections to verify its contents.

Beyond technology, the programme introduces standardized inspection protocols and a global feedback system that analyzes past incidents to continuously enhance safety measures. This collaborative effort has already gained momentum, with carriers representing over 70% of global container capacity joining at launch.

Highlighting the urgency, WSC President and CEO Joe Kramek said, “Accurate declaration of dangerous goods is not only a legal requirement but the foundation of safety at sea. This programme adds a vital layer of protection against ship fires, which Allianz reports are linked to over a quarter of cargo-related incidents.”

Dangerous goods include explosives, flammable liquids, toxic gases, and corrosive substances. Mishandling them can lead to catastrophic accidents. Proper packaging, labeling, and handling by trained personnel are critical to safe transportation. While hazardous, these goods are essential to industries such as manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and scientific research

The WSC stressed that the Cargo Safety Programme will evolve, incorporating new technologies and refined inspection standards to address emerging threats. By improving visibility and control over dangerous shipments, the initiative aims to protect lives, safeguard the environment, and strengthen global supply chains.