IAPH’s full-day in-person-only Technical Committee Day on 2 November will include an exploration of the important issue of lithium-ion battery safety, led by George Charalampidis, director of regulatory affairs, of the World Shipping Council (WSC). The risks are real and arguably increasing in line with the volumes of these batteries being transported. The consequences of a ‘thermal runaway’ fire, either on a vessel berthed in a port or in a container terminal, would be far-reaching, and such risks are of increasing concern to IAPH members. George has advocated for stronger controls over the maritime transport of lithium-ion batteries and cells, particularly concerning fire risks associated with containerised shipments. Held at the Hilton London Olympia, the day before the 2026 IAPH World Ports Conference, the TC Day will feature nine technical sessions across three parallel streams, followed by meetings of the three main committees. To book your place, please access the registration form and agenda here. For any questions on the agenda or inquiries about contributing, please contact IAPH director, technical committees Masaoki Shirai.

