“Vehicle Carrier Safety Guidelines Released to Enhance Industry Practices”
PRESS RELEASE
On March 20, 2024, the Vehicle Carrier Safety Forum (VCSF) released its inaugural industry guidelines titled ‘Common Guidance on the loading and presentation of vehicles’ in London. These guidelines, along with a checklist for support, aim to mitigate the risks associated with the transportation of unaccompanied vehicles, including electric and hybrid vehicles, while also emphasizing the safety of terminal and vessel personnel and the protection of property, including the vessel itself.
The Vehicle Carrier Safety Forum is a collaboration of vessel operators, insurers, and industry experts dedicated to promoting safety on vessels designated for vehicle transportation. The guidelines are endorsed by industry organizations such as The International Group of P&I Clubs, The International Chamber of Shipping, and the TT Club.
These guidelines are meant to complement specific procedures from individual vehicle manufacturers, shippers, terminals, or carriers regarding aspects such as vehicle separation on board the vessel or emergency response protocols.
Geir Jorgensen, Chair of the IG P&I Ships’ Technical Committee, praised the guidelines as a positive safety initiative driven by vessel operators focusing on shared best practices. Philip Bacon, Vice President Commercial Operations of Siem Shipping and part of the Vehicle Carrier Safety Forum Steering Committee, highlighted the importance of the guidelines in addressing safety concerns throughout the transport chain, especially with the increasing shipment of electric and larger-battery hybrid vehicles.
Peregrine Storrs Fox, Risk Management Director at the TT Club, commended the collaboration with port operators in developing guidelines that serve as a foundation for terminals to establish safe procedures. Lional Sharon, Marine Adviser at the International Chamber of Shipping, expressed their support for the guidance, emphasizing the need for all parties in the transport chain to understand and address the challenges posed by the evolving market of vehicle transportation.
In conclusion, the VCSF’s release of ‘Common Guidance on the loading and presentation of vehicles’ marks a significant step towards enhancing safety measures within the industry and ensuring the secure carriage of vehicles in line with maritime regulations.
