Answer
The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code is a mandatory framework under SOLAS Chapter XI-2– Special Measures to Enhance Maritime Security. designed to detect and deter security threats to ships and port facilities. It applies to passenger ships and cargo ships of 500 GT and above on international voyages.
The ISPS regime entered into force on 1 July 2004.
Purpose of ISPS Code
Its basic purpose is to establish a framework for:
- identifying security threats;
- assessing security risks;
- preventing security incidents;
- controlling unauthorized access;
- protecting ships and port facilities;
- providing communication between ships, companies, governments and port facilities;
- ensuring security plans and procedures exist.
ISPS Code structure: The Code has:
Part A — Mandatory: Contains mandatory security requirements.
Part B — Guidance: Provides guidance on implementing Part A requirements.
Security levels
Security Level 1: Normal level.
Minimum appropriate protective security measures shall be maintained at all times.
Security Level 2: Heightened level.
Additional protective measures are maintained because of an increased risk of a security incident.
Security Level 3: Exceptional level.
Further specific protective measures are maintained when a security incident is probable or imminent.
Note: The ship does not independently decide that the international security level has changed simply on the Master's discretion.
The security level is established by the appropriate Contracting Government/Administration; the ship implements the corresponding measures.
Implementation Procedure on a Newly Built Ship:
Step | Action Required | Key Responsible Entity |
|---|---|---|
1. Designations | Designate a Company Security Officer (CSO) and Ship Security Officer (SSO) with mandatory approved STCW security training. | Shipowner / Company |
2. Ship Security Assessment (SSA) | Conduct an on-site security assessment identifying vulnerabilities, access points, restricted areas, and emergency procedures. | CSO / Recognized Security Organization (RSO) |
3. Ship Security Plan (SSP) | Draft a tailor-made SSP based on the SSA detailing protocols for Security Levels 1, 2, and 3, access control, SSAS, and security equipment. | CSO / Ship Manager |
4. Approval of SSP | Submit the SSP to the Flag Administration or designated RSO for formal review and approval. | Flag State / RSO |
5. On-Board Setup & SSAS Test | Install required security hardware (SSAS, access control, lighting, CCTV if specified) and test the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS). Conduct initial security drills. | SSO / Yard / Crew |
6. Interim Verification & Interim ISSC | RSO/Flag auditor verifies approved SSP is on board, SSAS is working, and SSO is appointed. An Interim International Ship Security Certificate (Interim ISSC) valid for max 6 months is issued. | RSO / Flag State |
7. Initial Audit & Full ISSC | After operating the ship under the approved SSP for at least 30 days, an initial on-board audit is performed. Upon successful verification, a full-term ISSC (valid for 5 years) is issued. | RSO / Flag State Auditor |