Unlock Lithium-Ion Battery Safety on Your Yacht

Are you prepared to handle a fire in a lithium-ion battery on your yacht? We understand the critical importance of ensuring the safety of your crew and vessel in such situations. That's why we offer a comprehensive training program designed to equip your crew with the knowledge and skills necessary to address lithium-ion battery-related hazards effectively.

Background

There has been a notable increase in yacht fires, as industry groups estimate 16 total losses resulting from fires between August 2021 and August 2022. While some incidents, such as arson or collateral damage from unrelated fires, are explained and not linked to the measures proposed in this guidance, around half of the cases remain unexplained. Among the potential causes for these unexplained fires, one significant consideration is the possibility of lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery fires. The growing usage of small electrically powered watercraft, including electric tenders, jet skis, e-foils, and other personal watercraft powered by Li-ion batteries, may be a contributing factor.

Moreover, there is a critical gap in crew training, as it has not been updated to address the associated risks and dangers related to the operation, storage, and charging of electric watercraft and other vehicles that are now carried on board.

Compliances

• ISM Code 6.3 and 6.5 Compliance: Training must ensure that key personnel, particularly those in safety-critical roles, are familiar with their duties and responsibilities regarding lithium-ion battery safety. The course supports the establishment and maintenance of procedures to enhance the safety management system on board.
• STCW Convention Regulation I/14 – 5: This regulation requires companies to ensure that seafarers are familiar with their duties, ship arrangements, equipment, and relevant procedures. The training provides the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to handle routine and emergency scenarios involving lithium-ion batteries.
• Early Detection and Response: Recognizing that lithium-ion battery fires are challenging to extinguish, the training stresses the importance of early detection of battery problems to prevent serious hazards. Crew members must be equipped to identify the early signs of battery malfunctions or damage before they escalate into emergencies.
• In response to the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s MGN 681 guideline, which mandates that competent persons undertake battery charging operations, our course clearly defines the role and responsibilities of these individuals when handling lithium-ion batteries. Participants will acquire the detailed knowledge needed to safely manage battery charging, identify hazardous or compromised batteries, and implement necessary measures to mitigate risks until these batteries can be safely removed from the yacht.

Basic Course: Crew introduction to lithium-ion safety on a yacht

Duration: 1 hour
Course Type: E-learning

In this e-learning Basic Course, we lay the foundation for your crew's lithium-ion battery safety training. In recognition that Li-ion battery fires are extremely difficult to extinguish, all crew should be trained in identifying the early signs of battery problems before they become a serious hazard to the yacht, including but not limited to:

• Experience from incidents on yachts 
• Lithium-ion batteries; fire risk overview
• Cause of fire
• Prevention and mitigation
• What to do in case of a fire
• Safety recommendations
• Risk and vulnerability analysis
   

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Advanced Course: Thorough introduction to lithium-ion safety on a yacht for key personnel

Duration: 2 days
Course type: 1 hour e-learning + 1-day instructor-led session

In this comprehensive course, key yacht personnel will gain essential knowledge and skills to manage lithium-ion battery safety effectively. With the growing risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, such as fire hazards, the course covers critical areas including:

• Overview of lithium-ion battery fire risks on yachts
• Early detection of battery issues
• Safe handling, storage, and charging practices
• Incident management and emergency response
• Compliance with ISM Code 6.3 and 6.5, STCW Convention Regulation I/14 – 5, and UK MGN 681
   

By completing this course, participants will be well-equipped to implement and oversee safety protocols, ensuring the yacht operates safely and in compliance with international maritime safety standards.

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Enroll Today and Secure Your Yacht's Safety

Don't wait until a lithium-ion battery incident occurs on your yacht. Enroll your crew in our specialized training program and empower them with the knowledge and skills needed to handle battery-related emergencies effectively. OilComp is here to be your trusted partner in lithium-ion battery safety training. Join us today, and let's safeguard your yacht together!