Bulker Safety Improves as Sector Continues Strong Growth
A new report looking at the trends in bulker operations and causalities over the past decade points to what the trade group INTERCARGO calls “encouraging progress” in safety, vessel losses, and fatalities. The group points out that with over 12,500 bulk carriers in service globally and demand for dry cargo trade growing, the industry must continue to focus on safety improvements.
Over the past decade, the sector has recorded 20 causalities on vessels of 10,000 or greater dwt. While the number is down dramatically, INTERCARGO calculates it still resulted in 89 seafarers losing their lives or an average of nine fatalities per year, and many more put in harm’s way. By comparison, it however highlights that the losses have been on a steady decline since the 1980s and 1990s into the 2000s. Between 1990 and 2000, INTERCARGO reports the sector experienced annual losses of between five and 26 vessels and fatalities ranging between 23 and 186 per year.
The report attributes the decline in casualties to elements including better crew training, improved ship design, new technology, and stronger regulatory compliance. Yet it sees three factors as the most dangerous to the industry. It says cargo liquefaction is the greatest risk to lives having accounted for nearly two-thirds (62 percent) of the seafarers killed while the similar challenge of cargo shifting sank two other vessels and cost 12 lives. The greatest risk to vessels however is grounding, which accounted for nearly half (45 percent) of the vessels lost in the past decade.
While it notes there were several high-profile large vessel causalities, such as the Wakashio and Stellar Banner, each lost in 2020, most of the casualties come among the smaller (50,000 to 59,000 dwt) sector or smaller vessels under 35,000 dwt and over 80,000 dwt.
INTERCARGO however emphasizes that significant risks persist, particularly those related to improperly declared cargoes, navigational failures, and delays in the submission of accident investigation reports by flag States. It notes that the average reporting time remains over two years, which it says is severely hindering the industry’s ability to learn and implement timely corrective actions.
It also cites the fact that three of the vessels lost in the attacks by the Houthis were bulkers. It notes that four seafarers were lost in those attacks which it says also had a broader impact on the sector and shipping in general. It notes the safety concerns raised by the Houthi attacks led to difficulties in recruiting seafarers.
As a trade group, it commits to working with international bodies and others to continue the progress in the sector. It also reiterates its call for a collective industry commitment to achieving zero loss of life and ships.
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Defining Asset Protection in Maritime
Protection not only covers ship and machinery, but also its crew. In today’s maritime industry, safeguarding assets demands a proactive, science-driven approach. The most effective strategies prevent damage before it occurs, minimize environmental impact, and ensure peak performance while meeting the demands of tightening global regulations.
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We also recognize that crew safety, health, and retention are essential to sustainable operation. Safer work environments, clean onboard drinking water, reduced exposure to harsh chemicals, and better training all contribute to a more resilient, operationally-fit crew.
The Drew Marine Difference
What sets Drew Marine apart isn’t just our product portfolio— it’s our deep expertise in critical systems and the tangible value we deliver to vessel performance and reliability. We know that every product applied onboard affects equipment performance, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and especially crew safety.
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Conclusion: Partnering for the Long Haul
For shipowners and operators looking for a proactive, integrated approach to fleet protection, Drew Marine is the proven choice. When your people are protected, your equipment lasts longer. When your systems run smoother, your crew works safer. With a history of innovation and a commitment to customer success, Drew Marine delivers protection you can count on.
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This article is sponsored by Drew Marine.
The opinions expressed herein are the author's and not necessarily those of The Maritime Executive.
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