Ferry evacuated due to hazardous substance leak

Summary

On September 16, 2026, the railway ferry "Mecklenburg-Vorpommern" (Germany–Sweden route) was evacuated in the Port of Rostock after crew members noticed a suspicious odor and a leak on a tank wagon. The subsequent large-scale deployment of CBRN units led to a wide-area cordon and the evacuation of 164 passengers and 51 crew members. Additionally, four crew members were taken to a hospital for examination.
After an operation lasting several hours, the all-clear was given because the suspected dangerous goods leak turned out to be condensation water. The odor on the ramp was ultimately attributed to painting work.

Transports of Dangerous Goods on Ferries

International and regional agreements apply to the transport of dangerous goods on ferries. They ensure that trucks (ADR) and railway wagons (RID) can roll in combined transport without complex reloading. The global basis for packaged dangerous goods at sea is the IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code). It is legally binding under international law within the framework of the SOLAS Convention. In Germany, it is anchored in law by the Ordinance on the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Sea (GGVSee). Under this framework, minimum technical requirements apply to the parking spaces for tank wagons on ferry decks. 
No dangerous goods transport may board unannounced. Freight forwarders must declare the cargo precisely to shipping companies in advance. The transport document must contain the UN number of the substance, the dangerous goods class, and information on flash points.
- Protective zones: A clear, accessible protective zone must be maintained around dangerous goods transport units. Furthermore, minimum distances to engine room entrances and ventilation shafts are prescribed.
- Avoidance of ignition sources: Electrical installations in the immediate vicinity of the parking spaces must be explosion-proof.
- Safety watches: Decks are monitored electronically. In suspected cases (such as recently in Rostock), alarm chains are triggered immediately, involving special CBRN units from the fire department and authorities.