On September 4, the Yangshan Port Maritime Authority completed a comprehensive re-inspection of a large container vessel that had been detained due to safety concerns regarding its fixed carbon dioxide fire suppression system, subsequently lifting the detention order.
The vessel was initially detained on August 21 after inspectors discovered abnormal rupture of safety membranes in the CO2 cylinders, which posed significant leakage risks. Following 14 days of continuous monitoring and strict supervision, the maritime authority demonstrated both regulatory effectiveness and service-oriented approach in resolving the safety issues.
During the remediation process, the Yangshan Port Maritime Authority implemented multiple measures to ensure both safety and operational efficiency. First, the authority emphasized safety awareness by reminding the vessel operators to strictly follow operational procedures, given the dual nature of carbon dioxide as both a fire suppressant and potential asphyxiation hazard. Second, proactive service support was provided through establishment of daily tracking mechanisms, with maritime officials actively coordinating solutions to practical challenges such as getting detection equipment aboard the vessel. Third, efficient re-inspection procedures were conducted to minimize vessel schedule disruptions, with two safety inspectors arriving early at Huangzeyang anchorage to complete the inspection and promptly lift the detention upon confirming successful remediation.
The foreign captain expressed appreciation for the Yangshan Port Maritime Authority's timely identification of the issues and professional support, which effectively ensured vessel safety throughout the process.
The Yangshan Port Maritime Authority indicated that it will continue advancing the transformation of Port State Control (PSC) from a single regulatory model to a comprehensive "regulation + service" approach. This strategy aims to maintain strict maritime safety standards while actively responding to industry needs, continuously optimizing the port's business environment and enhancing the modernization of maritime governance.