Spontaneous combustion of fish meal: Factors affecting its safe maritime transport

Abstract

Fish meal production characteristics and treatment are described, together with a detailed explanation of the international regulations for its maritime transport, as well as of the requirements for its stabilization to avoid its spontaneous combustion. Experience with this kind of transport, as well as Intensive research carried out over several years, has shown that the high fat content in several kinds of fish and the environmental humidity and temperature have a great influence and transform this kind of cargo into dangerous goods. Knowledge of proper stowage and cargo distribution in the holds greatly decreases the dangers during maritime transport. Good transport practice and stabilization of the meal with antioxidants together with the conclusions reached after research, make maritime transport of these cargoes safer.