The maritime industry is actively seeking technological innovations to address immediate safety and risk management challenges. This was the focus of a recent webinar hosted by Safetytech Accelerator, where experts from various maritime and tech sectors convened to discuss the potential impact of digital advancements.
During the webinar, Safetytech Managing Director Maurizio Pilu emphasized the need for actionable solutions that can be implemented promptly, bypassing lengthy regulatory changes. The discussion paralleled the launch of Waypoint 3, Safetytech Accelerator’s latest support program for startups, aimed at harnessing digital technology to enhance safety in critical industries and supply chains.
Peregrine Storrs-Fox, TT Club’s Risk Management Director, highlighted “Screening, Securing, and Security” as pivotal areas for immediate technological intervention. He pointed out the persistent issue of fires aboard container ships, often caused by incorrectly declared hazardous cargoes, suggesting the integration of digital technologies to align different Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Materials codes. Storrs-Fox also proposed the use of digital tools to monitor cargo lashings and ensure proper storage within smart containers, and for improving the security against freight crime.
Roopesh Das, SVP of Digital Acceleration at Wallenius Wilhelmsen, echoed the importance of enhancing fire safety, especially with the complex risks associated with transporting electric and hybrid vehicles. He advocated for technology that enables early fire detection and rapid extinguishing. Das also saw potential for digital innovations in improving cargo screening processes and personnel recruitment and training via Virtual and Augmented Reality tools.
Richard Holdsworth, ex-Maritime Ventures Lead at Shell, identified navigational safety, the automation of hazardous onboard activities, and analytics for identifying non-compliant vessels as prime targets for technological upgrades. Ran Merkazy, VP Product and Services Innovation at Lloyd’s Register, concurred on the focus on near-shore safety and addressed the risks arising from the fragmented nature of cargo storage.
Merkazy also brought attention to the issue of uninsured or underinsured cargoes as a significant opportunity for tech startups. The session concluded with a case study from Scoutbase’s Chief Commercial Officer, Bosiljka Kozomara, demonstrating how the Waypoint program helped develop its Human Factor Management program. Dan Poots of Safetytech Accelerator detailed the Waypoint 3: Maritime Risk program, inviting startups and corporate partners to apply before the deadline of April 8.
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