We would like to inform you that, in the context of the implementation of circular No 2070.0/28541/2024, dated 16 April 2024, of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy, on “Additional measures during the transport of vehicles using alternative fuels (AFVs) on Ro-Ro/Passenger and Ro-Ro/Cargo ships,” and in order to prevent and limit the risk of fire and toxic gas spillage in vehicle transport areas, the following measures will be applied by BLUE STAR FERRIES CO JOINT VENTURE:
- During loading of AFVs, recording of their type and the location where they are stowed on the ship, and placement by the crew of appropriate signs in a prominent place on the vehicles. For all-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles, checking of battery temperature.
- Note to drivers/passengers that they must immediately notify the crew if they receive any indication of an alarm from their vehicle.
- In all-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles, the level to which their batteries are charged shall not exceed 40% of their total capacity.
- For vehicles using other alternative fuels, such as LPG or natural gas, their fuel tanks must not be filled to more than 50% of their total capacity. Non-loading of AFVs that have damaged power supply systems, tanks or batteries, if these have not been removed. More specifically, in case of damage where it is unclear whether their batteries are damaged, non-loading and non-transport of vehicles. Responsibility for ensuring that there is no damage to a vehicle’s power supply system, tanks or batteries lies exclusively with the vehicle’s owner.
- Taking weight into account when stacking, particularly in the case of electric vehicles, given that, according to the EMSA report - Guidance on the carriage of AFVs in Ro-Ro spaces - Final version 1.1, 23.05.2022, electric vehicles are on average 25% heavier than their conventional counterparts.
- Loading of AFVs in areas with unobstructed CCTV coverage.
- Ensure operation of the artificial ventilation system of the loading area (if it is a closed ro-ro cargo area or special category as defined in Directive 2009/4/EC) during loading/unloading and during the voyage. Preferred loading of vehicles in open spaces, provided such spaces exist and it is practical and feasible.
Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs) include:
a) Hybrid and all-electric vehicles that have batteries.
b) Vehicles that use liquefied and compressed gaseous fuels.