The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, effective from July 1, 2004, establishes a comprehensive framework to enhance the security of international shipping and port facilities. It applies to all ships over 500 gross tonnage and the ports servicing them. The Code comprises two parts, accompanied by an annex detailing compliance requirements under the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations. All ISPS members must understand the implications of the Code for their business operations, including specific security measures that may differ across ports and facilities. Ensuring compliance is crucial for the safety and security of maritime operations.
There are three key security roles under ISPS Code that members must be aware of daily:
Company Security Officer (CSO): Responsible for security across all operations and ensuring compliance with the ISPS Code.
Ship Security Officer (SSO): In charge of the security for each ship, ensuring adherence to the ISPS Code.
Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO): Tasked with maintaining security at the port as mandated by the ISPS Code.
In all cases, security personnel must communicate with one another when delivering supplies to ships.
Contracting governments must establish security levels and provide guidance to protect against security incidents. Higher security levels indicate a greater likelihood of threats and should include:
Credible Threat Information: Assess the credibility of potential threats.
Corroborated Information: Validate any reported threats to ensure they are accurate.
Specific Threat Information: Identify specific threats relevant to the ship or facility.
Potential Consequences: Understand the possible impacts of security incidents.
When setting security levels, governments should issue necessary instructions and share security-related information with affected ships and port facilities.
Governments can delegate security responsibilities to recognized security organizations that align with their duties under the code, with some exceptions for essential security level settings.
Governments should evaluate the effectiveness of ship and port facility security plans or amendments to these plans based on relevant testing and approval processes.
Contracting governments decide when a Declaration of Security (DoS) is needed by assessing risks related to ship, port interactions, or ship activities.
A ship can request a DoS when:
It's at a higher security level than the port or another ship.
There’s an agreement between governments covering specific ships or scenarios.
A security threat affects the ship or port facility.
The ship is in a port without an approved security plan.
It’s involved in ship-to-ship operations with another ship without a security plan.
Such requests will be acknowledged by the relevant port or ship authority.
The DoS must be completed by the ship’s master or security officer.
The DoS must outline security requirements shared between the port facility and the ship.
Governments must keep a record of security declarations for the minimum period required.
Administrations should specify the duration for which Declarations of Security must be maintained by the ships registered under their flag.
The company must ensure that the ship security plan includes a clear statement emphasizing the master's authority. This plan should confirm that the master has the overriding authority and responsibility for making decisions regarding the ship's security. The company must also provide assistance as needed in relation to the ship's security.
The company is responsible for ensuring that the ship security officer and the ship security personnel receive the necessary support to fulfill their duties. This support must align with the relevant chapters of the code and the obligations specified in this section.
A ship must act based on the security levels set by contracting governments. At each security level, certain activities will be carried out to ensure compliance with the guidance provided in ISPS code.
Effective security measures must be in place to monitor restricted areas. Only authorized personnel should have access, and measures must be taken to control the movements of individuals and goods.
The company must ensure that communication related to security is consistently available and reliable. This includes following specific procedures for responding to any changes in the security level.
If a ship is required by the administration to change its security level, it must acknowledge and accept these instructions. Any difficulties in implementing these changes should be reported promptly to the administration.
The ship security assessment is a vital step in creating and updating the ship security plan. This assessment helps to ensure that all security measures are effective and up to date.
The company’s security officer is responsible for ensuring that the assessment is carried out by qualified personnel. They should evaluate the ship's security in line with the guidelines set out in the applicable codes. This evaluation must take into account the specific characteristics of the ship and its operations.
The ship security assessment will include an analysis of existing security measures, procedures, and operations. It should identify the strengths and weaknesses of the current security systems in place. Important elements to evaluate include existing security measures, procedures for dealing with threats, and the presence of any vulnerabilities.
The ship security assessment should be documented thoroughly. This documentation needs to be reviewed and accepted by the company. Regular reviews ensure that the assessment remains relevant and effective, adapting to any changes in the ship’s operations or environment.
Every ship must have an approved ship security plan that complies with the applicable codes. This plan outlines the necessary security measures for three different security levels. The plan must be prepared carefully, considering the unique needs of each ship.
The administration may authorize a review and approval of ship security plans. If there are changes to the ship or the approved plan, a reassessment of the ship security plan will be necessary. It is essential that the revised plan remains consistent with the guidelines and security requirements.
When developing the plan, it must follow the guidelines provided by relevant authorities. The language of the plan should be clear and accessible, ensuring that all crew members can understand and implement the security measures.
The ship security plan should cover several key areas, such as measures to protect against unauthorized access and procedures for responding to security threats. It is essential to include regular training and drills for crew members to maintain preparedness for any security incidents.
In conclusion, conducting thorough ship security assessments and maintaining up-to-date security plans are crucial for the safety and security of the ship, its crew, and its cargo. Regular reviews and updates ensure that the security measures remain effective and relevant to current risks and challenges.
Security records related to ship security activities must be maintained on board for a minimum period set by the administration. This includes documentation of training, drills, and exercises, security threats, incidents, changes in security levels, and communications regarding direct security threats.
Internal audits and security reviews are crucial for maintaining the ship's security plan. These records should be periodically reviewed to ensure compliance and effectiveness. Any changes to the plan must also be documented, along with the maintenance and testing of security equipment, including the ship security alert system.
Records should be kept in the working language of the ship or in a language that is commonly understood. If translations are used, they must be included to ensure clarity. Electronic forms of records are permitted and should be protected against unauthorized access or disclosure.
The company must appoint a Company Security Officer (CSO) who is responsible for the overall security of the ship. This individual will handle security assessments, ensure the ship security plan is regularly updated, and coordinate internal audits. The CSO must maintain a high level of security awareness and ensure effective communication between the ship security personnel and relevant port facility security officers.
Training and Coordination are essential components of the CSO’s role. They must arrange adequate training for personnel responsible for the ship's security and ensure that security requirements are consistently met. Furthermore, the CSO should implement measures to enhance the security culture among the crew and facilitate communication between all parties involved in ship security.
Designated Responsibilities
The Ship Security Officer (SSO) must be appointed on each vessel to oversee security matters. This role encompasses a range of duties aimed at ensuring the safety of the ship and its crew. These responsibilities include conducting regular security inspections, maintaining security measures, and overseeing the implementation of the ship's security plan.
Maintenance of Security Measures
The SSO is responsible for ensuring that effective security measures are upheld at all times. This involves regularly reviewing and updating security protocols, as well as ensuring that all crew members are aware of their roles in maintaining security. The SSO must also coordinate with port facility security officers to ensure a unified approach to safety.
Training and Awareness
Training is essential for the crew to understand their security duties. The SSO must ensure that adequate training is provided, covering relevant guidelines from the ship's security plan. This training should include emergency drills, allowing the crew to practice their response to various security scenarios.
Security Drills and Exercises
Regular drills and exercises should be conducted to test the effectiveness of the ship's security measures. The SSO must organize these drills and ensure that all crew members participate. These exercises are vital for reinforcing security protocols and ensuring that everyone is prepared for real-life incidents.
Incident Reporting
Any security incidents must be reported immediately to the appropriate authorities. The SSO should maintain clear communication with the company's security officer, documenting any deficiencies or non-conformities found during internal audits or inspections.
Collaboration with Port Security
The SSO must collaborate closely with port facility security officers to ensure a coordinated security effort. This partnership involves sharing information and resources to address any potential threats to the ship or port facility.
Ensuring Proper Equipment
The SSO is responsible for ensuring that all security equipment is operational, tested, and maintained. This includes regular inspections of security technology and systems on board the vessel.
Continuous Improvement
The SSO should continually seek to improve security practices on the ship. This involves monitoring security awareness among the crew and making adjustments to the security plan as needed.
Security Levels and Measures
Port facilities must adhere to specific security levels established by regulatory authorities. These measures are designed to manage risks and protect both the facility and vessels docked there. Port security personnel should monitor access and ensure that only authorized individuals are allowed within restricted areas.
Cargo Handling and Supervision
Effective supervision during cargo handling is crucial for maintaining security at the port. Personnel must be vigilant to prevent unauthorized access to cargo and ensure that all activities are conducted safely.
Communication
Security communication systems must be in place to relay information swiftly during any incident. This readiness is critical for maintaining operational security and ensuring a quick response to potential threats.
The port facility security assessment is crucial for developing and updating the port facility security plan. This assessment must be conducted by the Contracting Government where the port facility is located. It ensures that security measures are in place to protect against potential threats.
The assessments must be comprehensive and evaluated regularly. They should include identifying and evaluating important assets, infrastructure, and potential threats. This review helps in prioritizing security measures based on the risk levels associated with different assets.
Individuals conducting the assessment should have relevant skills to evaluate the security of the port facility. They need to follow guidelines provided in the applicable code to ensure thorough evaluations.
The results from the security assessments must be reviewed and updated regularly to account for any significant changes in the port facility. These changes can include alterations in the facility's layout or shifts in the operational environment.
The security assessment should include various elements, such as identifying key assets, potential threats, and vulnerabilities within the facility. It is important to establish and prioritize security measures to protect these assets effectively.
Once the assessment is completed, a report summarizing the findings must be prepared. This report should detail how the assessment was conducted and outline any vulnerabilities found during the process. It is crucial that this report is protected from unauthorized access or disclosure.
In summary, the port facility security assessment is a vital step in ensuring safety and security. It helps develop a robust security plan that is regularly reviewed and updated to meet evolving challenges.
The Port Facility Security Plan will be created and maintained based on a thorough assessment for each port facility. This plan aims to address the security needs specific to the port interface.
Security Levels will be defined in accordance with the regulations outlined in the code. The plan will ensure that the provisions meet the requirements for three distinct security levels.
Approval Process involves the designated government authority where the port facility is located. The security plan must be reviewed and authorized before implementation.
Guidelines will be followed as per established regulations to ensure that all necessary security measures are in place. These guidelines will cover prevention measures for unauthorized access to the facility and control systems for potential threats.
Response Procedures will outline how to react to security threats, including emergencies. They will also address ongoing operations and audits for compliance.
Collaboration with relevant authorities is vital to enhance security and manage risks effectively.
Plan Integration allows for compatibility with other emergency plans that might be in place. Regular updates will be part of the plan to adapt to changing security needs.
Role Assignment
Each port facility security officer must be designated for every port facility. This individual may oversee security for one or more facilities.
Duties and Responsibilities
The port facility security officer’s responsibilities include conducting initial security assessments, ensuring the development and maintenance of the security plan, and implementing and exercising the plan regularly.
Monitoring Security Measures
They must regularly inspect the facility to ensure that appropriate security measures are in place and operational. This includes recommending updates to the security plan based on changes in circumstances or security needs.
Port facility security personnel should have the necessary knowledge and training for their roles. They must be familiar with the security plan and be capable of fulfilling their assigned duties effectively.
Coordination and Reporting
The officer should coordinate the implementation of the security plan with relevant authorities and maintain records of security incidents to support ongoing safety efforts. Additionally, they must assist with verifying the identity of individuals boarding vessels when necessary.
Overview of Verification Requirements
Each ship must undergo verification before it can be put into service. This process ensures that the ship complies with the specified requirements for safety and security. The verification process should include a comprehensive assessment of the ship's security system and any related security equipment. The relevant regulations must be followed to guarantee that all safety measures are in place. The ship's security plan is critical, and it must meet the necessary standards.
Renewal of Verification Certification
A renewal verification certification is required for ships at specified intervals, as defined by the Administration. However, this period should not exceed five years unless otherwise specified. The renewal process ensures that the ship's security systems remain functional and effective. Inspections will be carried out to assess the condition of the ship's security equipment, confirming that it meets the requirements for the intended service.
Additional Verification Certifications
Additional verifications may be determined by the Administration, and they must be conducted by recognized personnel. These certifications can be requested based on specific operational needs or circumstances. The Administration has the authority to grant or deny these requests depending on the compliance with existing regulations. The aim is to maintain high safety and security standards.
Maintenance of Security Systems
Once verification has been completed, the ship's security system and any related equipment must be maintained in good condition. The ship's crew is responsible for ensuring that the security measures are effective at all times. Compliance with regulations is essential to ensure that safety is never compromised. Changes to the security systems require prior approval from the Administration.
Validity and Duration of Certificates
An International Ship Security Certificate must be issued following the initial or renewal verification process. This certificate confirms that the ship meets the required security standards. It can be issued by the Administration or an authorized organization. The certificate's validity will depend on the successful completion of the verification process.
Issuance and Handling of Certificates
The certificate, along with the verification report, should be submitted to the requesting Administration as soon as possible. The certificate serves as proof of compliance and must be carried on board the ship. It is crucial to ensure that all documentation is accurate and up-to-date to avoid potential issues during inspections.
Final Notes on Compliance
The International Ship Security Certificate is a critical document for ships operating internationally. It should be presented in a specific format that adheres to the guidelines outlined in the code. If the language used is not English, French, or Spanish, translations may be required for clarity.
By adhering to these verification and certification requirements, ships can ensure that they operate safely and effectively while meeting international regulations. The responsibility for maintaining these standards lies with both the shipowners and the Administration, ensuring that safety and security remain a top priority.
