THE recent spate of exploding reefer boxes - caused by the introduction of counterfeit gas in their refrigeration systems - was debated at a recent forum in London by the Container Owners Association [COA] and the maritime insurers, the TT Club.
"It is fully clear that counterfeit gases have entered the disposable gas bottle supply chain," said a statement issued at the end of the TT Club-sponsored event.
In its introduction the gas forms a lethal cocktail that reacts to the aluminium parts of the reefer machinery and it has been found in the rogue boxes.
Earlier reports suggested a number of reefer boxes that had gas repairs in Vietnam between March and April exploded when opened, killing three men.
Gas suppliers, who were also represented at the gathering, "clearly intend to continue taking measures to limit the activity of counterfeiters", but it was resolved to work towards a standardised test procedure to "ensure that gas bottles in use at repair and service facilities, and on board ships are safely tested".