Emirates Shipping Line (ESL), a leading regional carrier based in Dubai, has joined the World Shipping Council’s (WSC) Cargo Safety Program, a new industry-wide initiative aimed at improving maritime safety through the detection and prevention of undeclared and misdeclared dangerous goods.
As the shipping industry faces increasing incidents of cargo-related fires—many caused by improperly declared hazardous materials—this program brings together major global carriers to implement enhanced cargo screening, standardized inspection protocols, and the use of cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) tools.
A Commitment to Safer Seas
By joining the WSC Cargo Safety Program, Emirates Shipping Line aligns itself with over 70% of the world’s container shipping capacity, taking a firm stand on proactive safety measures. The program’s primary goal is to reduce the risk of shipboard fires by identifying high-risk cargo at the booking stage, well before it is loaded onto vessels.
“Safety is at the core of our operations,” said Till Ole Barrelet, CEO of Emirates Shipping Line. “Joining this initiative demonstrates our commitment to not only protecting our crew and cargo, but also contributing to a safer and more resilient global supply chain.”
Technology-Driven Prevention
The WSC program leverages AI-driven systems, developed in partnership with the National Cargo Bureau, to analyze booking data and flag suspicious or high-risk shipments. These tools use keyword detection, behavioral pattern analysis, and historical inspection results to improve screening accuracy. Carriers participating in the program will also share inspection results in a secure feedback loop, enabling the system to continuously learn and improve.
Rising Concerns in the Industry
According to the 2025 Allianz Safety and Shipping Review, shipboard fires have increased significantly over the past decade, with many traced back to undeclared lithium batteries, chemicals, and other hazardous goods. These fires not only endanger lives but also cause significant financial losses and environmental damage.
A Collective Effort
WSC President & CEO John Kramek welcomed ESL’s participation, stating, “The cargo safety program is built on collaboration. The more carriers involved, the more effective and far-reaching our safety efforts become. We are pleased to welcome Emirates Shipping Line into this vital initiative.”
