The system applies computer vision and machine learning algorithms to standard deck and bridge cameras, allowing them to identify containers that have fallen off a ship or been seen drifting at sea.
Maritime intelligence platform Eyesea and EVI Safety Technologies have announced an artificial intelligence-driven system that can automatically detect and report containers lost overboard using a ship's existing onboard cameras. After development and validation in a simulated environment, the technology is now being moved to testing on operational vessels.
The system applies computer vision and machine learning algorithms to standard deck and bridge cameras, allowing them to identify containers that have fallen off a ship or been seen drifting at sea. Once an incident is detected, the platform automatically records the incident and sends structured, geo-tagged data to the registered shipowner, flag authority and, if relevant, coastal authorities.
The development comes as the International Maritime Organization prepares to introduce mandatory reporting rules for container losses. These regulations require ships to promptly report the location, number of containers lost, and available details about their contents, especially if dangerous goods are involved. Eyesea and EVI say their systems are designed to help crew members meet these obligations by instantly generating standardized reports backed by visual evidence.
This technology aims to reduce the delays and discrepancies often associated with manual reporting by automating detection and notification. It also addresses persistent safety concerns. Many container losses occur unseen on board or are reported only after a significant amount of time has passed, limiting the ability to alert nearby transportation and authorities.
Commenting on the launch, Vladimir Ponomarfev, CEO of EVI Safety Technologies, said the application of AI could finally bring meaningful progress to long-standing maritime issues. “It’s exciting to be able to apply advances in machine learning and AI to help the maritime sector tackle environmental and safety challenges that have not received adequate attention for decades,” he said.
Lost containers remain a recurring feature of global shipping incidents, with multiple cases reported in recent weeks, underscoring the industry's call for faster detection, better data and more transparent reporting.
