To promote the proper and safe use of power banks while on board, the MPB has held a series of power bank safety information sessions in Keelung, Taichung, Kinmen, Nantou, Kaohsiung, Hualien, and Taitung. The MPB has also produced posters, all-in-one guides, and animated videos, which are displayed and disseminated through various channels at maritime passenger terminals, ticket booths, public sector facilities, and passenger ship cabins. Relevant information is also available on the official website of the MPB (https://www.motcmpb.gov.tw/Home/Node?siteId=1&nodeId=50134). The MPB hopes to strengthen public safety awareness and reduce the risk of power bank incidents on board.
MPB Director-General Yeh Hsieh-lung emphasized that lithium batteries pose particular fire risks because they are prone to thermal runaway, which can cause spontaneous ignition. To mitigate the risk of thermal runaway after an initial fire has been suppressed, lithium batteries should be cooled by using large amounts of water. The MPB has required passenger ship operators to prepare additional emergency equipment, such as metal water buckets and long-handled clamps, and has supervised all 98 operating passenger ships to complete their initial lithium battery fire response drills. Thereafter, drills will be conducted at least once every three months. The MPB will also assign inspectors to strengthen checks on drills and operational procedures during safety inspections to ensure that crew members are familiar with emergency response processes. The MPB specifically reminds passengers that if a power bank is found to be abnormally hot, swollen, emitting smoke, or producing an unusual odor, they should immediately stop using it and notify crew members for assistance. Any damage caused by improper use may result in legal and compensation liabilities.
Contact person: Section Chief Huang Yu-hsin, Ship Administration Division
Tel.: (02)89782625
