International Ship and Port Facility Security Code

The Diplomatic Conference on Maritime Security held in London in December 2002 adopted new provisions in the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 and the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code) to enhance maritime security. These new requirements form the international framework through which ships and port facilities can cooperate to detect and deter acts that threaten security in the maritime transport sector.

An Immediate Response Required

Following the tragic events of 11th September 2001, the twenty-second session of the Assembly of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), in November 2001, unanimously agreed to the development of new measures relating to the security of ships and of port facilities for adoption by a Conference of Contracting Governments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 in December 2002.

Chapter XI-2 of SOLAS '74 

The provision of Chapter XI-2 of SOLAS 74 and this Code apply to ships and to port facilities. The extension of SOLAS 74 to cover port facilities was agreed on the basis that SOLAS 74 offered the speediest means of ensuring the necessary security measures entered into force and given effect quickly. However, it was further agreed that the provisions relating to port facilities should relate solely to the ship/port interface.

Objects

Implementation of the provisions will require continuing effective cooperation and understanding between all those involved with or using ships & port facilities. This includes ship personnel, port personnel, passengers, cargo interests, ship & port management as well as those in National and Local Authorities with security responsibilities. In the interests of enhanced maritime security, additional responsibilities will have to be carried by the shipping & port industries and by all the National and Local Authorities as a plus.

Part B of this Code is considered when implementing the security provisions set out in Chapter XI-2 of SOLAS 74 and in Part A of ISPS Code. However, it is recognised that the extent to which the provisions apply may vary depending on the nature of the port facility and of the ship, its trade and/or cargo.

Below are the objectives of the ISPS Code:

• To establish an international framework involving cooperation between Contracting Governments, Government agencies, local administrations, and the shipping & port industries. This is utilised to detect security threats and take preventive measures against security incidents affecting ships or port facilities used in international trade;
• To establish the respective roles and responsibilities of the Contracting Governments, Government agencies, local administrations and the shipping & port industries at the national & international level for ensuring maritime security;
• To ensure the early and efficient collection and exchange of security-related information;
• To provide a methodology for security assessments to have in place plans and procedures to react to changing security levels;
• To ensure confidence that adequate and proportionate maritime security measures are in place.