DBI joins MBF to strengthen fire safety knowledge and risk management for battery-powered shipping
The Maritime Battery Forum (MBF) is excited to welcome DBI – The Danish Institute of Fire and Security Technology as the newest member of our global community of maritime battery enablers. With more than a century of experience in applied research, consultancy, and testing, DBI brings world-leading competence in fire safety, risk management, and emergency preparedness capabilities that are increasingly critical as battery systems become more widely adopted in maritime operations.
A trusted authority in fire and safety technology
DBI is a state-recognized technological service organization (GTS) headquartered in Denmark, known for its applied research and specialist services in fire safety, security technology, testing, advisory, and emergency preparedness.
Working across industries including maritime, energy, and construction, the institute supports both national and international clients with research-driven consultancy. Its mission is closely aligned with enabling a safe and effective green transition, ensuring that innovation is matched with evidence-based safety solutions.
Supporting safer maritime battery adoption
DBI began working with maritime battery challenges as early as 2017, bringing attention to the safety gaps that can arise when emerging technologies scale rapidly. A key milestone in this work was DBI’s “Blue Battery” project, which evaluated battery-related maritime incidents, assessed fire safety challenges, and developed recommendations for improved protection requirements and operational safety initiatives.
The institute continues to expand its work in this area and is currently preparing new battery-related projects aimed at improving safety practices and readiness as adoption grows.
Translating highly technical testing results into real-world guidance
By joining the Maritime Battery Forum, DBI aims to actively contribute its expertise to the global community working toward safe battery implementation at sea. The Institute recognizes that maritime batteries will play a significant role in decarbonization, but that the industry must ensure this transition is delivered with proper training, emergency preparedness, and risk-based design standards.
“We want to challenge assumptions and bring detailed technical knowledge and factual insight into the conversation, so that together we can deliver the green transition to battery-powered maritime solutions in a safe and reliable way.”
Through MBF membership, DBI also seeks to engage in international dialogue with shipowners, technology providers, and regulators supporting the development of best practices and helping shape safety frameworks that match the pace of innovation.
The institute’s strength lies in translating highly technical testing results into real-world guidance. The Institute brings extensive experience in both experimental fire testing and advanced numerical modelling, including CFD simulations used to analyze fire, smoke and heat spread scenarios.
Importantly, DBI validates simulation models against real tests, ensuring that safety recommendations are grounded in evidence and applicable to real operating conditions supporting safer vessels, better system integration, and improved emergency response planning.
