In an effort to enhance oversight of safety measures aboard Indonesian-flagged vessels transporting electric vehicles, the Ministry of Transportation, through the Directorate General of Sea Transportation, issued Circular Letter No. SE-DJPL 12 of 2024 on April 4, 2024, regarding the Handling of Indonesian-flagged Vessels Transporting Electric Vehicles. Addressed to all Heads of Main Harbor Master's Offices, Heads of Special Batam Harbor Master's Offices, Harbor Master's Offices, and Harbor Operator Offices throughout Indonesia, the circular aims to mitigate the risks associated with potential fires during the shipping process and ensure the safety of vessels, cargo, and crew. Capt. Antoni Arif Priadi, the Director General of Sea Transportation, explained that the issuance of this Circular Letter was prompted by the increasing number of electric vehicles transported on ships, which poses a risk of fire incidents during cargo handling operations. He emphasized the necessity of guidelines for Harbor Master's Offices and ship owners/operators regarding the loading of electric vehicles on board ships to ensure safety. According to the Circular Letter, the arrangement of loading electric vehicles on ships must adhere to specified designated stowage areas, considering factors such as adequate space, ventilation (both natural and mechanical), and appropriate firefighting equipment suitable for battery/electric vehicle-related fires.
Capt. Antoni emphasized the obligation for inspections by Harbor Master's Offices to ensure compliance with fire prevention measures and the readiness of ships and ship owners/operators to handle potential fire incidents involving electric vehicles. Moreover, ship owners/operators are required to familiarize their crew with procedures for handling electric vehicle cargo, ensure proper placement of vehicles, and provide trained personnel for fire prevention and response. Capt. Antoni also stressed the importance of awareness campaigns and training sessions conducted by Harbor Master's Offices for ship owners/operators and crew members regarding the potential hazards associated with transporting electric vehicles on ships.
