Working Conditions Aboard the Baltic-Star

On February 5, 2026, the Rijnmond Environmental Service (DCMR) issued a warning about potential odor disturbances arising from the cargo crisis involving the 'Baltic Star.' The vessel, recently arrived from Humber, docked at the HES Bulk Terminal Transshipment Company located in Botlek, Rotterdam, carrying a shipment of wood pellets that had begun to smolder. To extinguish the smoldering cargo, it became necessary to unload a portion of the shipment, which may result in the release of smoke or a burning odor. Residents in nearby areas—including Rozenburg, Zwartewaal, and Brielle—were cautioned, especially with prevailing easterly winds potentially carrying the smell into their neighborhoods. Although the unloading was initially slated to commence at 10:00 a.m., it experienced a setback and was rescheduled to start at 1:00 p.m. The entire cargo handling operation was projected to extend over 24 hours, with completion anticipated by early afternoon on February 6. In response to the situation, HBTM formulated a comprehensive action plan to ensure the unloading process was executed safely and efficiently. To oversee the operation, a DCMR supervisor was present, with the fire department also on standby should any fire suppression measures be warranted. Following the unloading, the 'Baltic Star' is expected to resume its voyage.

In the early hours of February 5, the cargo ship Baltic Star docked at the HES Bulk Terminal Maasdelta, located in Rotterdam's Waalhaven. Upon its arrival, concerns rose due to a portion of the wood pellet cargo showing signs of scalding, resulting in an acrid burning smell affecting nearby areas including Rozenburg, Zwartewaal, and Brielle. To address the risk of a potential fire erupting from the compromised cargo, the local fire department remained on high alert. Firefighters, alongside a representative from the Environmental Agency, were dispatched to vigilantly oversee the unloading process. The scalding incident was traced back to heat produced by bacterial activity or chemical reactions within the pellets. To mitigate the risk of a blaze, it was necessary to methodically unload the smouldering cargo, as failure to do so could have led to an uncontrolled fire on board the vessel. This unloading operation did experience a slight delay but persisted throughout the day, with precautions taken to minimize any brief flare-ups or odor disturbances during the process.