Fire at JBS terminal reignites debate on port security

Last week, the port sector followed two fire incidents in different terminals in the southern region of the country. One of them was registered at the terminal operated by JBS in Itajaí (SC)involving equipment of the type MHC (Mobile Harbour Crane)used in cargo handling operations.

The incident occurred at a time of expansion of activities and operational resumption of the port complex. According to information published in a report by Bloomberg Linethe company has been carrying out an investment plan estimated at R$220 millionfocusing on infrastructure, technology and modernization of operational assets, including the acquisition of new mobile cranes.

The investments are part of the strategy to strengthen the operation in Itajaí, which since the resumption of activities in October 2024, has shown consistent growth in cargo movement, with more than 143 thousand TEUs moved in seven months and annual capacity projection 558 thousand TEUs.

In the case of the recent occurrence, the operational response included the integrated action of the internal brigade, Fire Department, fixed fire fighting system and support from tugs equipped with Fire Fighting systemwhich contributed to the rapid containment of the flames and the safety of the port area.

The coordinated action of the teams reinforces the importance of emergency protocols and the preparedness structure maintained at the terminal.

The episode raises an alarm and reinforces the continued relevance of investments in maintenance, operational safety and technological modernization, themes that remain at the center of expansion strategies in the Brazilian port sector.

The scenario reinforces the moment of attention and expectations surrounding logistics and port investments in the country, with a focus on efficiency, safety and expansion of operational capacity.

The sector continues to monitor the technical developments of the incident in Itajaí and the evolution of port expansion projects nationwide.