Bangladesh shipbreaking yards face scrutiny after nine workers die

Nine workers died after being exposed to toxic hydrogen sulphide gas while dismantling the LNG carrier MT Rasi at the Ferdous Steel Ship Recycling Industries in Sitakunda, Bangladesh, on August 14. The incident occurred inside a confined tank on the vessel, which had arrived at the Chattogram anchorage in July 2025.

The accident has sparked renewed criticism regarding the effectiveness of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships. Although 23 of Bangladesh’s 31 shipbreaking yards are certified as ‘green’ under this global treaty, experts argue these certifications may constitute ‘greenwashing.’

Data from the Bangladesh Institute of Labour Studies indicates that 84 accidents have been recorded since the convention entered into force on June 26, 2025. These incidents have resulted in 15 deaths and 81 injuries. Common causes of accidents include gas explosions, falling heavy objects, and equipment failures such as crane or wire malfunctions.