Scrap Metal Fire in Hull Highlights Growing Risks in Recycling Trade

A blaze aboard the freighter Altay at Hull’s Albert Dock in June 2025 has once again highlighted the dangers posed to shipping, port facilities and public health by scrap-related fires.

Scrap metal has long been recognised as one of the most hazardous cargoes for fire risk, not because of the metal itself, but due to contamination with flammable debris and ready-made ignition sources such as damaged lithium-ion batteries. 

The incident began at about 0945 hours, when the vessel’s master spotted smoke rising from the newly-loaded cargo in the hold. The captain immediately sounded the general alarm, mustering the crew for firefighting duty and calling on the stevedoring team to begin discharging the hold with a grab to expose the seat of the fire. 

Within ten minutes, two fire teams were in place, while other crew members prepared the hatch coamings for closure if required.

By 1030 hours, shoreside fire crews had arrived and took over operations on board, allowing the ship’s crew to evacuate to the pier. The master and chief officer remained to monitor vessel stability as water was added to the hold. 

The fire produced large volumes of noxious smoke, prompting authorities to issue a shelter-in-place order for nearby residents and businesses. Firefighting water was deemed too contaminated to discharge into the dock and was instead pumped into tank trucks for specialised treatment. 

No injuries were reported, but the ship’s aft hold sustained structural damage. Following regulatory surveys, the vessel departed for repairs in Turkey, while the cargo was retained on the pier for investigation.

In a preliminary conclusion released in November 2025, the UK’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) said the fire likely originated from an undischarged battery or another spark source. 

“The scrap cargo contained hazardous impurities, including batteries, oil drums, and oily residues, which posed a fire risk,” the agency reported. 

Investigators identified that the Hull scrapyard relied on suppliers to screen recyclables and classified the mixed product as Group C nonhazardous cargo, effectively treating it as clean despite the presence of contaminants.

Marine insurer Gard has warned of a growing trend in scrap metal fires and suggested that the Group C definition may need revision to reflect current industry realities. 

“It is . . . apparent from several serious scrap metal fires involving Group C declarations that the cargoes contained quantities of combustible and/or potentially hazardous foreign materials, such as batteries, rubber, plastics, wood, foam, oils/greases, gas bottles and rags,” Gard stated. 

“In one accident report an experienced representative of the scrap facility highlighted to investigators the fire dangers associated with lithium-ion batteries and their increasingly prolific use: ‘It’s becoming more of a problem every month, every year in our industry’”.

The incident at Hull reflects the increasing risks posed by contaminated scrap cargoes and the need for stricter screening and classification standards. As the recycling trade expands and lithium-ion batteries proliferate, current practices may no longer be sufficient to safeguard vessels, ports, and communities from the growing threat of scrap-related fires.

Brookes Bell's approach to Fire and Explosion Investigation

At Brookes Bell, our highly trained experts apply the recognised scientific approach to systematically identify, collect and analyse evidence, establish a precise chronology of events, and determine the root cause of a fire. 

Combining deep knowledge of fire chemistry and physics with forensic best practice, and supported by advanced simulation software, we interrogate multiple hypotheses, enabling us to pinpoint the most likely cause quickly and reliably. 

Whether you require urgent response or expert advice on vessel or vehicle fires, Brookes Bell provides the trusted, meticulous investigation that delivers answers when they matter most.

Contact our team today to discuss your requirements

For more maritime industry insights, news and information, read the Brookes Bell News and Knowledge Hub…

A Brief History of the Suez Canal | The World's Largest Container Ships | The World's Biggest Container Shipping Companies