Analysis of the international freight and cargo handling insurer’s claims history reveals that a fifth of all losses and damage to port equipment are related to fire. There exists a real and significant risk to the safety of the workforce and terminal users that must be addressed.
London, 6th March 2025
TT Club is warning cargo handling and terminals operators that fire remains a major cause of damage and losses to port and terminal equipment. The insurance specialist’s analysis of a ten-year claims history shows that of the near 1600 fire-related claims it has received over that period, some 19% have involved this equipment. With some minor variation over the years, the percentage has remained relatively consistent.
“Fire risk not only poses a significant concern in terms of insured losses and obvious operational disruption, fire also presents a real and significant risk to the safety of the workforce, facility visitors/users and indeed the general public,” comments Neil Dalus from TT’s Loss Prevention department. “As a result we strongly advise that fire detection and suppression systems in port equipment are considered by operators as critical safety measures.”
TT Club also commends the recently published white paper by the Port Equipment Manufacturing Association (PEMA]) entitled ‘Fire Detection and Suppression Systems for Mobile Port Equipment’ (Click here). The paper is comprehensive in its coverage of fire safety measures and particularly emphases importance of regular maintenance, collaborative risk assessments, adherence to industry standards, and of course mandatory regulations.
Among the essential information contained in the PEMA white paper are the range of available technologies for fire detection and suppression; current trends in electrification and automation together with their particular associated risks and environmental considerations when addressing the potential consequences of equipment fires.
In summary Dalus concludes, “”TT joins with PEMA in urging the installation of state-of-the-art fire suppression systems in all port equipment together with strict adherence to manufacturers’ service protocols and remote monitoring for autonomous equipment. Going forward we advise the close collaboration between fire suppression system suppliers, equipment manufacturers and port operators in tackling the dangerous trend in the consistent risk of fire.”
TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. The Club’s services include specialist underwriting, claims management and risk and loss management advice, supported by a global office network. TT Club’s mission is to make the industry safer, more secure and more sustainable.
Established in 1968, TT Club currently services more than 1400 Members – container owners, operators, ports, terminals and logistics companies. Its membership covers the entire logistics journey, working across maritime, road, rail, and air ranging from some of the world’s largest logistics operators to smaller, bespoke companies managing similar risks. The Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. Its average annual customer retention rate is consistently over 95%, with some Members having chosen to insure with the Club for over 50 years.
TT Club is managed by Thomas Miller – an independent and international provider of insurance, professional and investment services.