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Security Plan for Ports, Vessels, Facilities, Outer Continental Shelf Facilities and Other Security-Related Requirements

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SOLAS/CONF.5/34
ANNEX 1
Page 4
PART A
MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS REGARDING THE PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER XI-2
OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE SAFETY OF LIFE AT SEA, 1974,
AS AMENDED
1

GENERAL

1.1

Introduction

This part of the International Code for the Security of Ships and Port Facilities contains
mandatory provisions to which reference is made in chapter XI-2 of the International Convention
for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 as amended.
1.2

Objectives

The objectives of this Code are:

1.3

.1

to establish an international framework involving co-operation between
Contracting Governments, Government agencies, local administrations and the
shipping and port industries to detect security threats and take preventive
measures against security incidents affecting ships or port facilities used in
international trade;

.2

to establish the respective roles and responsibilities of the Contracting
Governments, Government agencies, local administrations and the shipping and
port industries, at the national and international level for ensuring maritime
security;

.3

to ensure the early and efficient collection and exchange of security-related
information;

.4

to provide a methodology for security assessments so as to have in place plans and
procedures to react to changing security levels; and

.5

to ensure confidence that adequate and proportionate maritime security measures
are in place.

Functional requirements

In order to achieve its objectives, this Code embodies a number of functional requirements.
These include, but are not limited to:
.1

gathering and assessing information with respect to security threats and
exchanging such information with appropriate Contracting Governments;

.2

requiring the maintenance of communication protocols for ships and port
facilities;

.3

preventing unauthorized access to ships, port facilities and their restricted areas;

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.4

preventing the introduction of unauthorized weapons, incendiary devices or
explosives to ships or port facilities;

.5

providing means for raising the alarm in reaction to security threats or security
incidents;

.6

requiring ship and port facility security plans based upon security assessments;
and

.7

requiring training, drills and exercises to ensure familiarity with security plans and
procedures.

2

DEFINITIONS

2.1

For the purpose of this part, unless expressly provided otherwise:
.1

Convention means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974
as amended.

.2

Regulation means a regulation of the Convention.

.3

Chapter means a chapter of the Convention.

.4

Ship security plan means a plan developed to ensure the application of measures
on board the ship designed to protect persons on board, cargo, cargo transport
units, ship’s stores or the ship from the risks of a security incident.

.5

Port facility security plan means a plan developed to ensure the application of
measures designed to protect the port facility and ships, persons, cargo, cargo
transport units and ship’s stores within the port facility from the risks of a security
incident.

.6

Ship security officer means the person on board the ship, accountable to the
master, designated by the Company as responsible for the security of the ship,
including implementation and maintenance of the ship security plan and for
liaison with the company security officer and port facility security officers.

.7

Company security officer means the person designated by the Company for
ensuring that a ship security assessment is carried out; that a ship security plan is
developed, submitted for approval, and thereafter implemented and maintained
and for liaison with port facility security officers and the ship security officer.

.8

Port facility security officer means the person designated as responsible for the
development, implementation, revision and maintenance of the port facility
security plan and for liaison with the ship security officers and company security
officers.

.9

Security level 1 means the level for which minimum appropriate protective
security measures shall be maintained at all times.

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.10

Security level 2 means the level for which appropriate additional protective
security measures shall be maintained for a period of time as a result of
heightened risk of a security incident.

.11

Security level 3 means the level for which further specific protective security
measures shall be maintained for a limited period of time when a security incident
is probable or imminent, although it may not be possible to identify the specific
target.

2.2
The term “ship”, when used in this Code, includes mobile offshore drilling units and
high-speed craft as defined in regulation XI-2/1.
2.3
The term “Contracting Government” in connection with any reference to a port facility,
when used in sections 14 to 18, includes a reference to the “Designated Authority”.
2.4
Terms not otherwise defined in this part shall have the same meaning as the meaning
attributed to them in chapters I and XI-2.
3

APPLICATION

3.1

This Code applies to:
.1

.2

the following types of ships engaged on international voyages:
.1

passenger ships, including high-speed passenger craft;

.2

cargo ships, including high-speed craft, of 500 gross tonnage and upwards;
and

.3

mobile offshore drilling units; and

port facilities serving such ships engaged on international voyages.

3.2
Notwithstanding the provisions of section 3.1.2, Contracting Governments shall decide
the extent of application of this Part of the Code to those port facilities within their territory
which, although used primarily by ships not engaged on international voyages, are required,
occasionally, to serve ships arriving or departing on an international voyage.
3.2.1 Contracting Governments shall base their decisions, under section 3.2, on a port facility
security assessment carried out in accordance with this Part of the Code.
3.2.2 Any decision which a Contracting Government makes, under section 3.2, shall not
compromise the level of security intended to be achieved by chapter XI-2 or by this Part of the
Code.
3.3
This Code does not apply to warships, naval auxiliaries or other ships owned or operated
by a Contracting Government and used only on Government non-commercial service.
3.4
Sections 5 to 13 and 19 of this part apply to Companies and ships as specified in
regulation XI-2/4.
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3.5
Sections 5 and 14 to 18 of this part apply to port facilities as specified in
regulation XI-2/10.
3.6
law.

Nothing in this Code shall prejudice the rights or obligations of States under international

4

RESPONSIBILITIES OF CONTRACTING GOVERNMENTS

4.1
Subject to the provisions of regulation XI-2/3 and XI-2/7, Contracting Governments shall
set security levels and provide guidance for protection from security incidents. Higher security
levels indicate greater likelihood of occurrence of a security incident. Factors to be considered in
setting the appropriate security level include:
.1

the degree that the threat information is credible;

.2

the degree that the threat information is corroborated;

.3

the degree that the threat information is specific or imminent; and

.4

the potential consequences of such a security incident.

4.2
Contracting Governments, when they set security level 3, shall issue, as necessary,
appropriate instructions and shall provide security related information to the ships and port
facilities that may be affected.
4.3
Contracting Governments may delegate to a recognized security organization certain of
their security related duties under chapter XI-2 and this Part of the Code with the exception of:
.1

setting of the applicable security level;

.2

approving a Port Facility Security Assessment and subsequent amendments to an
approved assessment;

.3

determining the port facilities which will be required to designate a Port Facility
Security Officer;

.4

approving a Port Facility Security Plan and subsequent amendments to an
approved plan;

.5

exercising control and compliance measures pursuant to regulation XI-2/9; and

.6

establishing the requirements for a Declaration of Security.

4.4
Contracting Governments shall, to the extent they consider appropriate, test the
effectiveness of the Ship or the Port Facility Security Plans, or of amendments to such plans, they
have approved, or, in the case of ships, of plans which have been approved on their behalf.

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5

DECLARATION OF SECURITY

5.1
Contracting Governments shall determine when a Declaration of Security is required by
assessing the risk the ship/port interface or ship to ship activity poses to persons, property or the
environment.
5.2

A ship can request completion of a Declaration of Security when:
.1

the ship is operating at a higher security level than the port facility or another ship
it is interfacing with;

.2

there is an agreement on a Declaration of Security between Contracting
Governments covering certain international voyages or specific ships on those
voyages;

.3

there has been a security threat or a security incident involving the ship or
involving the port facility, as applicable;

.4

the ship is at a port which is not required to have and implement an approved port
facility security plan; or

.5

the ship is conducting ship to ship activities with another ship not required to have
and implement an approved ship security plan.

5.3
Requests for the completion of a Declaration of Security, under this section, shall be
acknowledged by the applicable port facility or ship.
5.4

The Declaration of Security shall be completed by:
.1

the master or the ship security officer on behalf of the ship(s); and, if appropriate,

.2

the port facility security officer or, if the Contracting Government determines
otherwise, by any other body responsible for shore-side security, on behalf of the
port facility.

5.5
The Declaration of Security shall address the security requirements that could be shared
between a port facility and a ship (or between ships) and shall state the responsibility for each.
5.6
Contracting Governments shall specify, bearing in mind the provisions of
regulation XI-2/9.2.3, the minimum period for which Declarations of Security shall be kept by
the port facilities located within their territory.
5.7
Administrations shall specify, bearing in mind the provisions of regulation XI-2/9.2.3, the
minimum period for which Declarations of Security shall be kept by ships entitled to fly their
flag.
6

OBLIGATIONS OF THE COMPANY

6.1
The Company shall ensure that the ship security plan contains a clear statement
emphasizing the master’s authority. The Company shall establish in the ship security plan that
the master has the overriding authority and responsibility to make decisions with respect to the
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safety and security of the ship and to request the assistance of the Company or of any Contracting
Government as may be necessary.
6.2
The Company shall ensure that the company security officer, the master and the ship
security officer are given the necessary support to fulfil their duties and responsibilities in
accordance with chapter XI-2 and this Part of the Code.
7

SHIP SECURITY

7.1
A ship is required to act upon the security levels set by Contracting Governments as set
out below.
7.2
At security level 1, the following activities shall be carried out, through appropriate
measures, on all ships, taking into account the guidance given in part B of this Code, in order to
identify and take preventive measures against security incidents:
.1

ensuring the performance of all ship security duties;

.2

controlling access to the ship;

.3

controlling the embarkation of persons and their effects;

.4

monitoring restricted areas to ensure that only authorized persons have access;

.5

monitoring of deck areas and areas surrounding the ship;

.6

supervising the handling of cargo and ship’s stores; and

.7

ensuring that security communication is readily available.

7.3
At security level 2, the additional protective measures, specified in the ship security plan,
shall be implemented for each activity detailed in section 7.2, taking into account the guidance
given in part B of this Code.
7.4
At security level 3, further specific protective measures, specified in the ship security
plan, shall be implemented for each activity detailed in section 7.2, taking into account the
guidance given in part B of this Code.
7.5
Whenever security level 2 or 3 is set by the Administration, the ship shall acknowledge
receipt of the instructions on change of the security level.
7.6
Prior to entering a port or whilst in a port within the territory of a Contracting
Government that has set security level 2 or 3, the ship shall acknowledge receipt of this
instruction and shall confirm to the port facility security officer the initiation of the
implementation of the appropriate measures and procedures as detailed in the ship security plan,
and in the case of security level 3, in instructions issued by the Contracting Government which
has set security level 3. The ship shall report any difficulties in implementation. In such cases,
the port facility security officer and ship security officer shall liase and co-ordinate the
appropriate actions.

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7.7
If a ship is required by the Administration to set, or is already at, a higher security level
than that set for the port it intends to enter or in which it is already located, then the ship shall
advise, without delay, the competent authority of the Contracting Government within whose
territory the port facility is located and the port facility security officer of the situation.
7.7.1 In such cases, the ship security officer shall liaise with the port facility security officer
and co-ordinate appropriate actions, if necessary.
7.8
An Administration requiring ships entitled to fly its flag to set security level 2 or 3 in a
port of another Contracting Government shall inform that Contracting Government without
delay.
7.9
When Contracting Governments set security levels and ensure the provision of security
level information to ships operating in their territorial sea, or having communicated an intention
to enter their territorial sea, such ships shall be advised to maintain vigilance and report
immediately to their Administration and any nearby coastal States any information that comes to
their attention that might affect maritime security in the area.
7.9.1 When advising such ships of the applicable security level, a Contracting Government
shall, taking into account the guidance given in the part B of this Code, also advise those ships of
any security measure that they should take and, if appropriate, of measures that have been taken
by the Contracting Government to provide protection against the threat.
8

SHIP SECURITY ASSESSMENT

8.1
The ship security assessment is an essential and integral part of the process of developing
and updating the ship security plan.
8.2
The company security officer shall ensure that the ship security assessment is carried out
by persons with appropriate skills to evaluate the security of a ship, in accordance with this
section, taking into account the guidance given in part B of this Code.
8.3
Subject to the provisions of section 9.2.1, a recognized security organization may carry
out the ship security assessment of a specific ship.
8.4
The ship security assessment shall include an on-scene security survey and, at least, the
following elements:
.1

identification of existing security measures, procedures and operations;

.2

identification and evaluation of key ship board operations that it is important to
protect;

.3

identification of possible threats to the key ship board operations and the
likelihood of their occurrence, in order to establish and prioritise security
measures; and

.4

identification of weaknesses, including human factors in the infrastructure,
policies and procedures.

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8.5
The ship security assessment shall be documented, reviewed, accepted and retained by the
Company.
9

SHIP SECURITY PLAN

9.1
Each ship shall carry on board a ship security plan approved by the Administration. The
plan shall make provisions for the three security levels as defined in this Part of the Code.
9.1.1 Subject to the provisions of section 9.2.1, a recognized security organization may prepare
the ship security plan for a specific ship.
9.2
The Administration may entrust the review and approval of ship security plans, or of
amendments to a previously approved plan, to recognized security organizations.
9.2.1 In such cases the recognized security organization, undertaking the review and approval
of a ship security plan, or its amendments, for a specific ship shall not have been involved in
either the preparation of the ship security assessment or of the ship security plan, or of the
amendments, under review.
9.3
The submission of a ship security plan, or of amendments to a previously approved plan,
for approval shall be accompanied by the security assessment on the basis of which the plan, or
the amendments, have been developed.
9.4
Such a plan shall be developed, taking into account the guidance given in part B of this
Code and shall be written in the working language or languages of the ship. If the language or
languages used is not English, French or Spanish, a translation into one of these languages shall
be included. The plan shall address, at least, the following:
.1

measures designed to prevent weapons, dangerous substances and devices
intended for use against persons, ships or ports and the carriage of which is not
authorized from being taken on board the ship;

.2

identification of the restricted areas and measures for the prevention of
unauthorized access to them;

.3

measures for the prevention of unauthorized access to the ship;

.4

procedures for responding to security threats or breaches of security, including
provisions for maintaining critical operations of the ship or ship/port interface;

.5

procedures for responding to any security instructions Contracting Governments
may give at security level 3;

.6

procedures for evacuation in case of security threats or breaches of security;

.7

duties of shipboard personnel assigned security responsibilities and of other
shipboard personnel on security aspects;

.8

procedures for auditing the security activities;

.9

procedures for training, drills and exercises associated with the plan;

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.10

procedures for interfacing with port facility security activities;

.11

procedures for the periodic review of the plan and for updating;

.12

procedures for reporting security incidents;

.13

identification of the ship security officer;

.14

identification of the company security officer including 24-hour contact details;

.15

procedures to ensure the inspection, testing, calibration, and maintenance of any
security equipment provided on board;

.16

frequency for testing or calibration of any security equipment provided on board;

.17

identification of the locations where the ship security alert system activation
points are provided;1 and

.18

procedures, instructions and guidance on the use of the ship security alert system,
including the testing, activation, deactivation and resetting and to limit false
alerts.1

9.4.1 Personnel conducting internal audits of the security activities specified in the plan or
evaluating its implementation shall be independent of the activities being audited unless this is
impracticable due to the size and the nature of the Company or of the ship.
9.5
The Administration shall determine which changes to an approved ship security plan or to
any security equipment specified in an approved plan shall not be implemented unless the
relevant amendments to the plan are approved by the Administration. Any such changes shall be
at least as effective as those measures prescribed in chapter XI-2 and this Part of the Code.
9.5.1 The nature of the changes to the ship security plan or the security equipment that have
been specifically approved by the Administration, pursuant to section 9.5, shall be documented in
a manner that clearly indicates such approval. This approval shall be available on board and shall
be presented together with the International Ship Security Certificate (or the Interim International
Ship Security Certificate). If these changes are temporary, once the original approved measures
or equipment are reinstated, this documentation no longer needs to be retained by the ship.
9.6
The plan may be kept in an electronic format. In such a case, it shall be protected by
procedures aimed at preventing its unauthorized deletion, destruction or amendment.
9.7

The plan shall be protected from unauthorized access or disclosure.

9.8
Ship security plans are not subject to inspection by officers duly authorized by a
Contracting Government to carry out control and compliance measures in accordance with
regulation XI-2/9, save in circumstances specified in section 9.8.1.
1

Administrations may allow, in order to avoid compromising in any way the objective of providing on board the
ship security alert system, this information to be kept elsewhere on board in a document known to the master, the
ship security officer and other senior shipboard personnel as may be decided by the Company.
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9.8.1 If the officers duly authorized by a Contracting Government have clear grounds to believe
that the ship is not in compliance with the requirements of chapter XI-2 or part A of this Code,
and the only means to verify or rectify the non-compliance is to review the relevant requirements
of the ship security plan, limited access to the specific sections of the plan relating to the noncompliance is exceptionally allowed, but only with the consent of the Contracting Government
of, or the master of, the ship concerned. Nevertheless, the provisions in the plan relating to
section 9.4 subsections .2, .4, .5, .7, .15, .17 and .18 of this Part of the Code are considered as
confidential information, and cannot be subject to inspection unless otherwise agreed by the
Contracting Governments concerned.
10

RECORDS

10.1 Records of the following activities addressed in the ship security plan shall be kept on
board for at least the minimum period specified by the Administration, bearing in mind the
provisions of regulation XI-2/9.2.3:
.1

training, drills and exercises;

.2

security threats and security incidents;

.3

breaches of security;

.4

changes in security level;

.5

communications relating to the direct security of the ship such as specific threats
to the ship or to port facilities the ship is, or has been;

.6

internal audits and reviews of security activities;

.7

periodic review of the ship security assessment;

.8

periodic review of the ship security plan;

.9

implementation of any amendments to the plan; and

.10

maintenance, calibration and testing of any security equipment provided on board
including testing of the ship security alert system.

10.2 The records shall be kept in the working language or languages of the ship. If the
language or languages used are not English, French or Spanish, a translation into one of these
languages shall be included.
10.3 The records may be kept in an electronic format. In such a case, they shall be protected
by procedures aimed at preventing their unauthorized deletion, destruction or amendment.
10.4

The records shall be protected from unauthorized access or disclosure.

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11

COMPANY SECURITY OFFICER

11.1 The Company shall designate a company security officer. A person designated as the
company security officer may act as the company security officer for one or more ships,
depending on the number or types of ships the Company operates provided it is clearly identified
for which ships this person is responsible. A Company may, depending on the number or types
of ships they operate designate several persons as company security officers provided it is clearly
identified for which ships each person is responsible.
11.2 In addition to those specified elsewhere in this Part of the Code, the duties and
responsibilities of the company security officer shall include, but are not limited to:
.1

advising the level of threats likely to be encountered by the ship, using appropriate
security assessments and other relevant information;

.2

ensuring that ship security assessments are carried out;

.3

ensuring the development, the submission for approval, and thereafter the
implementation and maintenance of the ship security plan;

.4

ensuring that the ship security plan is modified, as appropriate, to correct
deficiencies and satisfy the security requirements of the individual ship;

.5

arranging for internal audits and reviews of security activities;

.6

arranging for the initial and subsequent verifications of the ship by the
Administration or the recognized security organization;

.7

ensuring that deficiencies and non-conformities identified during internal audits,
periodic reviews, security inspections and verifications of compliance are
promptly addressed and dealt with;

.8

enhancing security awareness and vigilance;

.9

ensuring adequate training for personnel responsible for the security of the ship;

.10

ensuring effective communication and co-operation between the ship security
officer and the relevant port facility security officers;

.11

ensuring consistency between security requirements and safety requirements;

.12

ensuring that, if sister-ship or fleet security plans are used, the plan for each ship
reflects the ship-specific information accurately; and

.13

ensuring that any alternative or equivalent arrangements approved for a particular
ship or group of ships are implemented and maintained.

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12

SHIP SECURITY OFFICER

12.1

A ship security officer shall be designated on each ship.

12.2 In addition to those specified elsewhere in this Part of the Code, the duties and
responsibilities of the ship security officer shall include, but are not limited to:

13

.1

undertaking regular security inspections of the ship to ensure that appropriate
security measures are maintained;

.2

maintaining and supervising the implementation of the ship security plan,
including any amendments to the plan;

.3

co-ordinating the security aspects of the handling of cargo and ship’s stores with
other shipboard personnel and with the relevant port facility security officers;

.4

proposing modifications to the ship security plan;

.5

reporting to the company security officer any deficiencies and non-conformities
identified during internal audits, periodic reviews, security inspections and
verifications of compliance and implementing any corrective actions;

.6

enhancing security awareness and vigilance on board;

.7

ensuring that adequate training has been provided to shipboard personnel, as
appropriate;

.8

reporting all security incidents;

.9

co-ordinating implementation of the ship security plan with the company security
officer and the relevant port facility security officer; and

.10

ensuring that security equipment is properly operated, tested, calibrated and
maintained, if any.

TRAINING, DRILLS AND EXERCISES ON SHIP SECURITY

13.1 The company security officer and appropriate shore-based personnel shall have
knowledge and have received training, taking into account the guidance given in part B of this
Code.
13.2 The ship security officer shall have knowledge and have received training, taking into
account the guidance given in part B of this Code.
13.3 Shipboard personnel having specific security duties and responsibilities shall understand
their responsibilities for ship security as described in the ship security plan and shall have
sufficient knowledge and ability to perform their assigned duties, taking into account the
guidance given in part B of this Code.

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13.4 To ensure the effective implementation of the ship security plan, drills shall be carried out
at appropriate intervals taking into account the ship type, ship personnel changes, port facilities to
be visited and other relevant circumstances, taking into account the guidance given in part B of
this Code.
13.5 The company security officer shall ensure the effective coordination and implementation
of ship security plans by participating in exercises at appropriate intervals, taking into account
the guidance given in part B of this Code.
14

PORT FACILITY SECURITY

14.1 A port facility is required to act upon the security levels set by the Contracting
Government within whose territory it is located. Security measures and procedures shall be
applied at the port facility in such a manner as to cause a minimum of interference with, or delay
to, passengers, ship, ship’s personnel and visitors, goods and services.
14.2 At security level 1, the following activities shall be carried out through appropriate
measures in all port facilities, taking into account the guidance given in part B of this Code, in
order to identify and take preventive measures against security incidents:
.1

ensuring the performance of all port facility security duties;

.2

controlling access to the port facility;

.3

monitoring of the port facility, including anchoring and berthing area(s);

.4

monitoring restricted areas to ensure that only authorized persons have access;

.5

supervising the handling of cargo;

.6

supervising the handling of ship’s stores; and

.7

ensuring that security communication is readily available.

14.3 At security level 2, the additional protective measures, specified in the port facility
security plan, shall be implemented for each activity detailed in section 14.2, taking into account
the guidance given in part B of this Code.
14.4 At security level 3, further specific protective measures, specified in the port facility
security plan, shall be implemented for each activity detailed in section 14.2, taking into account
the guidance given in part B of this Code.
14.4.1 In addition, at security level 3, port facilities are required to respond to and implement
any security instructions given by the Contracting Government within whose territory the port
facility is located.
14.5 When a port facility security officer is advised that a ship encounters difficulties in
complying with the requirements of chapter XI-2 or this part or in implementing the appropriate
measures and procedures as detailed in the ship security plan, and in the case of security level 3
following any security instructions given by the Contracting Government within whose territory
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the port facility is located, the port facility security officer and ship security officer shall liase and
co-ordinate appropriate actions.
14.6 When a port facility security officer is advised that a ship is at a security level, which is
higher than that of the port facility, the port facility security officer shall report the matter to the
competent authority and shall liase with the ship security officer and co-ordinate appropriate
actions, if necessary.
15

PORT FACILITY SECURITY ASSESSMENT

15.1 The port facility security assessment is an essential and integral part of the process of
developing and updating the port facility security plan.
15.2 The port facility security assessment shall be carried out by the Contracting Government
within whose territory the port facility is located. A Contracting Government may authorise a
recognized security organization to carry out the port facility security assessment of a specific
port facility located within its territory.
15.2.1 When the port facility security assessment has been carried out by a recognized security
organization, the security assessment shall be reviewed and approved for compliance with this
section by the Contracting Government within whose territory the port facility is located.
15.3 The persons carrying out the assessment shall have appropriate skills to evaluate the
security of the port facility in accordance with this section, taking into account the guidance
given in part B of this Code.
15.4 The port facility security assessments shall periodically be reviewed and updated, taking
account of changing threats and/or minor changes in the port facility and shall always be
reviewed and updated when major changes to the port facility take place.
15.5

The port facility security assessment shall include, at least, the following elements:
.1

identification and evaluation of important assets and infrastructure it is important
to protect;

.2

identification of possible threats to the assets and infrastructure and the likelihood
of their occurrence, in order to establish and prioritize security measures;

.3

identification, selection and prioritization of counter measures and procedural
changes and their level of effectiveness in reducing vulnerability; and

.4

identification of weaknesses, including human factors in the infrastructure,
policies and procedures.

15.6 The Contracting Government may allow a port facility security assessment to cover more
than one port facility if the operator, location, operation, equipment, and design of these port
facilities are similar. Any Contracting Government, which allows such an arrangement shall
communicate to the Organization particulars thereof.
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15.7 Upon completion of the port facility security assessment, a report shall be prepared,
consisting of a summary of how the assessment was conducted, a description of each
vulnerability found during the assessment and a description of counter measures that could be
used to address each vulnerability. The report shall be protected from unauthorized access or
disclosure.
16

PORT FACILITY SECURITY PLAN

16.1 A port facility security plan shall be developed and maintained, on the basis of a port
facility security assessment, for each port facility, adequate for the ship/port interface. The plan
shall make provisions for the three security levels, as defined in this Part of the Code.
16.1.1 Subject to the provisions of section 16.2, a recognized security organization may prepare
the port facility security plan of a specific port facility.
16.2 The port facility security plan shall be approved by the Contracting Government in whose
territory the port facility is located.
16.3
Such a plan shall be developed taking into account the guidance given in part B of this
Code and shall be in the working language of the port facility. The plan shall address, at least,
the following:
.1

measures designed to prevent weapons or any other dangerous substances and
devices intended for use against persons, ships or ports and the carriage of which
is not authorized, from being introduced into the port facility or on board a ship;

.2

measures designed to prevent unauthorized access to the port facility, to ships
moored at the facility, and to restricted areas of the facility;

.3

procedures for responding to security threats or breaches of security, including
provisions for maintaining critical operations of the port facility or ship/port
interface;

.4

procedures for responding to any security instructions the Contracting
Government, in whose territory the port facility is located, may give at security
level 3;

.5

procedures for evacuation in case of security threats or breaches of security;

.6

duties of port facility personnel assigned security responsibilities and of other
facility personnel on security aspects;

.7

procedures for interfacing with ship security activities;

.8

procedures for the periodic review of the plan and updating;

.9

procedures for reporting security incidents;

.10

identification of the port facility security officer including 24-hour contact details;

.11

measures to ensure the security of the information contained in the plan;

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.12

measures designed to ensure effective security of cargo and the cargo handling
equipment at the port facility;

.13

procedures for auditing the port facility security plan;

.14

procedures for responding in case the ship security alert system of a ship at the
port facility has been activated; and

.15

procedures for facilitating shore leave for ship’s personnel or personnel changes,
as well as access of visitors to the ship including representatives of seafarers’
welfare and labour organizations.

16.3.1 Personnel conducting internal audits of the security activities specified in the plan or
evaluating its implementation shall be independent of the activities being audited unless this is
impracticable due to the size and the nature of the port facility.
16.4 The port facility security plan may be combined with, or be part of, the port security plan
or any other port emergency plan or plans.
16.5 The Contracting Government in whose territory the port facility is located shall determine
which changes to the port facility security plan shall not be implemented unless the relevant
amendments to the plan are approved by them.
16.6 The plan may be kept in an electronic format. In such a case, it shall be protected by
procedures aimed at preventing its unauthorized deletion, destruction or amendment.
16.7

The plan shall be protected from unauthorized access or disclosure.

16.8 Contracting Governments may allow a port facility security plan to cover more than one
port facility if the operator, location, operation, equipment, and design of these port facilities are
similar. Any Contracting Government, which allows such an alternative arrangement, shall
communicate to the Organization particulars thereof.
17

PORT FACILITY SECURITY OFFICER

17.1 A port facility security officer shall be designated for each port facility. A person may be
designated as the port facility security officer for one or more port facilities.
17.2 In addition to those specified elsewhere in this Part of the Code, the duties and
responsibilities of the port facility security officer shall include, but are not limited to:
.1

conducting an initial comprehensive security survey of the port facility taking into
account the relevant port facility security assessment;

.2

ensuring the development and maintenance of the port facility security plan;

.3

implementing and exercising the port facility security plan;

.4

undertaking regular security inspections of the port facility to ensure the
continuation of appropriate security measures;

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.5

recommending and incorporating, as appropriate, modifications to the port facility
security plan in order to correct deficiencies and to update the plan to take into
account of relevant changes to the port facility;

.6

enhancing security awareness and vigilance of the port facility personnel;

.7

ensuring adequate training has been provided to personnel responsible for the
security of the port facility;

.8

reporting to the relevant authorities and maintaining records of occurrences which
threaten the security of the port facility;

.9

co-ordinating implementation of the port facility security plan with the appropriate
Company and ship security officer(s);

.10

co-ordinating with security services, as appropriate;

.11

ensuring that standards for personnel responsible for security of the port facility
are met;

.12

ensuring that security equipment is properly operated, tested, calibrated and
maintained, if any; and

.13

assisting ship security officers in confirming the identity of those seeking to board
the ship when requested.

17.3 The port facility security officer shall be given the necessary support to fulfil the duties
and responsibilities imposed by chapter XI-2 and this Part of the Code.
18

TRAINING, DRILLS AND EXERCISES ON PORT FACILITY SECURITY

18.1 The port facility security officer and appropriate port facility security personnel shall have
knowledge and have received training, taking into account the guidance given in part B of this
Code.
18.2 Port facility personnel having specific security duties shall understand their duties and
responsibilities for port facility security, as described in the port facility security plan and shall
have sufficient knowledge and ability to perform their assigned duties, taking into account the
guidance given in part B of this Code.
18.3 To ensure the effective implementation of the port facility security plan, drills shall be
carried out at appropriate intervals taking into account the types of operation of the port facility,
port facility personnel changes, the type of ship the port facility is serving and other relevant
circumstances, taking into account guidance given in part B of this Code.
18.4 The port facility security officer shall ensure the effective coordination and
implementation of the port facility security plan by participating in exercises at appropriate
intervals, taking into account the guidance given in part B of this Code.

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19

VERIFICATION AND CERTIFICATION FOR SHIPS

19.1

Verifications

19.1.1 Each ship to which this Part of the Code applies shall be subject to the verifications
specified below:
.1

an initial verification before the ship is put in service or before the certificate
required under section 19.2 is issued for the first time, which shall include a
complete verification of its security system and any associated security equipment
covered by the relevant provisions of chapter XI-2, this Part of the Code and the
approved ship security plan. This verification shall ensure that the security system
and any associated security equipment of the ship fully complies with the
applicable requirements of chapter XI-2 and this Part of the Code, is in
satisfactory condition and fit for the service for which the ship is intended;

.2

a renewal verification at intervals specified by the Administration, but not
exceeding five years, except where section 19.3 is applicable. This verification
shall ensure that the security system and any associated security equipment of the
ship fully complies with the applicable requirements of chapter XI-2, this Part of
the Code and the approved ship security plan, is in satisfactory condition and fit
for the service for which the ship is intended;

.3

at least one intermediate verification. If only one intermediate verification is
carried out it shall take place between the second and third anniversary date of the
certificate as defined in regulation I/2(n). The intermediate verification shall
include inspection of the security system and any associated security equipment of
the ship to ensure that it remains satisfactory for the service for which the ship is
intended. Such intermediate verification shall be endorsed on the certificate;

.4

any additional verifications as determined by the Administration.

19.1.2 The verifications of ships shall be carried out by officers of the Administration. The
Administration may, however, entrust the verifications to a recognized security organization
referred to in regulation XI-2/1.
19.1.3 In every case, the Administration concerned shall fully guarantee the completeness and
efficiency of the verification and shall undertake to ensure the necessary arrangements to satisfy
this obligation.
19.1.4 The security system and any associated security equipment of the ship after verification
shall be maintained to conform with the provisions of regulations XI-2/4.2 and XI-2/6, this Part
of the Code and the approved ship security plan. After any verification under section 19.1.1 has
been completed, no changes shall be made in security system and in any associated security
equipment or the approved ship security plan without the sanction of the Administration.
19.2

Issue or endorsement of certificate

19.2.1 An International Ship Security Certificate shall be issued after the initial or renewal
verification in accordance with the provisions of section 19.1.
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19.2.2 Such certificate shall be issued or endorsed either by the Administration or by a
recognized security organization acting on behalf of the Administration.
19.2.3 Another Contracting Government may, at the request of the Administration, cause the
ship to be verified and, if satisfied that the provisions of section 19.1.1 are complied with, shall
issue or authorize the issue of an International Ship Security Certificate to the ship and, where
appropriate, endorse or authorize the endorsement of that certificate on the ship, in accordance
with this Code.
19.2.3.1 A copy of the certificate and a copy of the verification report shall be transmitted as
soon as possible to the requesting Administration.
19.2.3.2 A certificate so issued shall contain a statement to the effect that it has been issued at
the request of the Administration and it shall have the same force and receive the same
recognition as the certificate issued under section 19.2.2.
19.2.4 The International Ship Security Certificate shall be drawn up in a form corresponding to
the model given in the appendix to this Code. If the language used is not English, French or
Spanish, the text shall include a translation into one of these languages.
19.3

Duration and validity of certificate

19.3.1 An International Ship Security Certificate shall be issued for a period specified by the
Administration which shall not exceed five years.
19.3.2 When the renewal verification is completed within three months before the expiry date of
the existing certificate, the new certificate shall be valid from the date of completion of the
renewal verification to a date not exceeding five years from the date of expiry of the existing
certificate.
19.3.2.1 When the renewal verification is completed after the expiry date of the existing
certificate, the new certificate shall be valid from the date of completion of the renewal
verification to a date not exceeding five years from the date of expiry of the existing certificate.
19.3.2.2 When the renewal verification is completed more than three months before the expiry
date of the existing certificate, the new certificate shall be valid from the date of completion of
the renewal verification to a date not exceeding five years from the date of completion of the
renewal verification.
19.3.3 If a certificate is issued for a period of less than five years, the Administration may
extend the validity of the certificate beyond the expiry date to the maximum period specified in
section 19.3.1, provided that the verifications referred to in section 19.1.1 applicable when a
certificate is issued for a period of five years are carried out as appropriate.
19.3.4 If a renewal verification has been completed and a new certificate cannot be issued or
placed on board the ship before the expiry date of the existing certificate, the Administration or
recognized security organization acting on behalf of the Administration may endorse the existing
certificate and such a certificate shall be accepted as valid for a further period which shall not
exceed five months from the expiry date.

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19.3.5 If a ship at the time when a certificate expires is not in a port in which it is to be verified,
the Administration may extend the period of validity of the certificate but this extension shall be
granted only for the purpose of allowing the ship to complete its voyage to the port in which it is
to be verified, and then only in cases where it appears proper and reasonable to do so. No
certificate shall be extended for a period longer than three months, and the ship to which an
extension is granted shall not, on its arrival in the port in which it is to be verified, be entitled by
virtue of such extension to leave that port without having a new certificate. When the renewal
verification is completed, the new certificate shall be valid to a date not exceeding five years
from the expiry date of the existing certificate before the extension was granted.
19.3.6 A certificate issued to a ship engaged on short voyages which has not been extended
under the foregoing provisions of this section may be extended by the Administration for a
period of grace of up to one month from the date of expiry stated on it. When the renewal
verification is completed, the new certificate shall be valid to a date not exceeding five years
from the date of expiry of the existing certificate before the extension was granted.
19.3.7 If an intermediate verification is completed before the period specified in section 19.1.1,
then:
.1

the expiry date shown on the certificate shall be amended by endorsement to a
date which shall not be more than three years later than the date on which the
intermediate verification was completed;

.2

the expiry date may remain unchanged provided one or more additional
verifications are carried out so that the maximum intervals between the
verifications prescribed by section 19.1.1 are not exceeded.

19.3.8 A certificate issued under section 19.2 shall cease to be valid in any of the following
cases:
.1

if the relevant verifications are not completed within the periods specified under
section 19.1.1;

.2

if the certificate is not endorsed in accordance with section 19.1.1.3 and 19.3.7.1,
if applicable;

.3

when a Company assumes the responsibility for the operation of a ship not
previously operated by that Company; and

.4

upon transfer of the ship to the flag of another State.

19.3.9 In the case of:
.1

a transfer of a ship to the flag of another Contracting Government, the Contracting
Government whose flag the ship was formerly entitled to fly shall, as soon as
possible, transmit to the receiving Administration copies of, or all information
relating to, the International Ship Security Certificate carried by the ship before
the transfer and copies of available verification reports, or

.2

a Company that assumes responsibility for the operation of a ship not previously
operated by that Company, the previous Company shall as soon as possible,

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transmit to the receiving Company copies of any information related to the
International Ship Security Certificate or to facilitate the verifications described in
section 19.4.2.
19.4

Interim certification

19.4.1 The certificates specified in section 19.2 shall be issued only when the Administration
issuing the certificate is fully satisfied that the ship complies with the requirements of section
19.1. However, after 1 July 2004, for the purposes of:
.1

a ship without a certificate, on delivery or prior to its entry or re-entry into service;

.2

transfer of a ship from the flag of a Contracting Government to the flag of another
Contracting Government;

.3

transfer of a ship to the flag of a Contracting Government from a State which is
not a Contracting Government; or

.4

when a Company assumes the responsibility for the operation of a ship not
previously operated by that Company;

until the certificate referred to in section 19.2 is issued, the Administration may cause an Interim
International Ship Security Certificate to be issued, in a form corresponding to the model given in
the Appendix to this Part of the Code.
19.4.2 An Interim International Ship Security Certificate shall only be issued when the
Administration or recognized security organization, on behalf of the Administration, has verified
that:
.1

the ship security assessment required by this Part of the Code has been completed,

.2

a copy of the ship security plan meeting the requirements of chapter XI-2 and
part A of this Code is provided on board, has been submitted for review and
approval, and is being implemented on the ship;

.3

the ship is provided with a ship security alert system meeting the requirements of
regulation XI-2/6, if required,

.4

the company security officer:
.1

has ensured:
.1

the review of the ship security plan for compliance with this Part of
the Code,

.2

that the plan has been submitted for approval, and

.3

that the plan is being implemented on the ship, and

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.2

has established the necessary arrangements, including arrangements for
drills, exercises and internal audits, through which the company security
officer is satisfied that the ship will successfully complete the required
verification in accordance with section 19.1.1.1, within 6 months;

.5

arrangements have been made for carrying out the required verifications under
section 19.1.1.1;

.6

the master, the ship’s security officer and other ship’s personnel with specific
security duties are familiar with their duties and responsibilities as specified in this
Part of the Code; and with the relevant provisions of the ship security plan placed
on board; and have been provided such information in the working language of
the ship’s personnel or languages understood by them; and

.7

the ship security officer meets the requirements of this Part of the Code.

19.4.3 An Interim International Ship Security Certificate may be issued by the Administration or
by a recognized security organization authorized to act on its behalf.
19.4.4 An Interim International Ship Security Certificate shall be valid for 6 months, or until the
certificate required by section 19.2 is issued, whichever comes first, and may not be extended.
19.4.5 No Contracting Government shall cause a subsequent, consecutive Interim International
Ship Security Certificate to be issued to a ship if, in the judgment of the Administration or the
recognized security organization, one of the purposes of the ship or a Company in requesting
such certificate is to avoid full compliance with chapter XI-2 and this Part of the Code beyond
the period of the initial interim certificate as specified in section 19.4.4.
19.4.6 For the purposes of regulation XI-2/9, Contracting Governments may, prior to accepting
an Interim International Ship Security Certificate as a valid certificate, ensure that the
requirements of sections 19.4.2.4 to 19.4.2.6 have been met.

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APPENDIX TO PART A
APPENDIX 1
Form of the International Ship Security Certificate
INTERNATIONAL SHIP SECURITY CERTIFICATE
(official seal)

(State)

Certificate Number

Issued under the provisions of the

INTERNATIONAL CODE FOR THE SECURITY OF SHIPS AND OF PORT FACILITIES
(ISPS CODE)
Under the authority of the Government of ___________________________________________
(name of State)
by __________________________________________________________________________
(persons or organization authorized)
Name of ship
:……………………………………………………….……
Distinctive number or letters
:……………………………………………….……….…...
Port of registry
:……………………………………….……………………
Type of ship
:……………………………………………………….……
Gross tonnage
:…………………………………………………………….
IMO Number
:………………………………………..…………………..
Name and address of the Company :……..……………………………………………………..
THIS IS TO CERTIFY:
1

that the security system and any associated security equipment of the ship has been
verified in accordance with section 19.1 of part A of the ISPS Code;

2

that the verification showed that the security system and any associated security
equipment of the ship is in all respects satisfactory and that the ship complies with the
applicable requirements of chapter XI-2 of the Convention and part A of the ISPS Code;

3

that the ship is provided with an approved Ship Security Plan.

Date of initial / renewal verification on which this certificate is based …………………..………..
This Certificate is valid until ……………………………………………………………………….
subject to verifications in accordance with section 19.1.1 of part A of the ISPS Code.
Issued at …………………………………………..
(place of issue of the Certificate)
Date of issue ……………………..

……………………………………………………..
(signature of the duly authorized official
issuing the Certificate)

(Seal or stamp of issuing authority, as appropriate)
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ENDORSEMENT FOR INTERMEDIATE VERIFICATION
THIS IS TO CERTIFY that at an intermediate verification required by section 19.1.1 of part A of
the ISPS Code the ship was found to comply with the relevant provisions of chapter XI-2 of the
Convention and part A of the ISPS Code.
Intermediate verification

Signed …………………………………
(Signature of authorized official)
Place …………………………………..
Date ……………………………………
(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate)

ENDORSEMENT FOR ADDITIONAL VERIFICATIONS*
Additional verification

Signed …………………………………
(Signature of authorized official)
Place ………………………………….
Date ……………………………………
(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate)

Additional verification

Signed ……………………………….…
(Signature of authorized official)
Place …………………………………..
Date ……………………………………
(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate)

Additional verification

Signed …………………………………
(Signature of authorized official)
Place ………………………………….
Date ……………………………………
(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate)

___________
* This part of the certificate shall be adapted by the Administration to indicate whether it has established additional
verifications as provided for in section 19.1.1.4.
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ADDITIONAL VERIFICATION IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION A/19.3.7.2 OF
THE ISPS CODE
THIS IS TO CERTIFY that at an additional verification required by section 19.3.7.2 of part A of
the ISPS Code the ship was found to comply with the relevant provisions of chapter XI-2 of the
Convention and part A of the ISPS Code.
Signed …………………………………
(Signature of authorized official)
Place ………………………………….
Date ……………………………………
(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate)
ENDORSEMENT TO EXTEND THE CERTIFICATE IF VALID FOR LESS THAN
5 YEARS WHERE SECTION A/19.3.3 OF THE ISPS CODE APPLIES
The ship complies with the relevant provisions of part A of the ISPS Code, and the Certificate
shall, in accordance with section 19.3.3 of part A of the ISPS Code, be accepted as valid until
………………….
Signed …………………………………
(Signature of authorized official)
Place …………………………………
Date ……………………………………
(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate)
ENDORSEMENT WHERE THE RENEWAL VERIFICATION HAS BEEN
COMPLETED AND SECTION A/19.3.4 OF THE ISPS CODE APPLIES
The ship complies with the relevant provisions of part A of the ISPS Code, and the Certificate
shall, in accordance with section 19.3.4 of part A of the ISPS Code, be accepted as valid until
………………….
Signed …………………………………
(Signature of authorized official)
Place …………………………………
Date ……………………………………
(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate)

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ENDORSEMENT TO EXTEND THE VALIDITY OF THE CERTIFICATE
UNTIL REACHING THE PORT OF VERIFICATION WHERE SECTION A/19.3.5 OF
THE ISPS CODE APPLIES OR FOR A PERIOD OF GRACE WHERE
SECTION A/19.3.6 OF THE ISPS CODE APPLIES
This Certificate shall, in accordance with section 19.3.5 / 19.3.6* of part A of the ISPS Code, be
accepted as valid until ……………………………….
Signed …………………………………
(Signature of authorized official)
Place ………………………………….
Date ……………………………………
(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate)
ENDORSEMENT FOR ADVANCEMENT OF EXPIRY DATE
WHERE SECTION A/19.3.7.1 OF THE ISPS CODE APPLIES
In accordance with section 19.3.7.1 of part A of the ISPS Code, the new expiry date** is
……………………….…
Signed …………………………………
(Signature of authorized official)
Place ………………………………….
Date ……………………………………
(Seal or stamp of the authority, as appropriate)

*
**

Delete as appropriate.
In case of completion of this part of the certificate the expiry date shown on the front of the certificate shall also
be amended accordingly.

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APPENDIX 2
Form of the Interim International Ship Security Certificate
INTERIM INTERNATIONAL SHIP SECURITY CERTIFICATE
(official seal)

(State)

Certificate No.
Issued under the provisions of the
INTERNATIONAL CODE FOR THE SECURITY OF SHIPS AND OF PORT FACILITIES
(ISPS CODE)
Under the authority of the Government of _________________________________________
(name of State)
by _________________________________________________________________________
(persons or organization authorized)
Name of ship
: ….........................……................................................
Distinctive number or letters
: …................................................................................
Port of registry
: …............................................................................….
Type of ship
: …………….................................................................
Gross tonnage
: ….................................................................................
IMO Number
: …............................................................................….
Name and address of company
: ….............................................................................…
Is this a subsequent, consecutive interim certificate? Yes/ No*
If Yes, date of issue of initial interim certificate….....................................................
THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT the requirements of section A/19.4.2 of the ISPS Code have been
complied with.
This Certificate is issued pursuant to section A/19.4 of the ISPS Code.
This Certificate is valid until ….....................................................
Issued at ….......................................................................
(place of issue of the certificate)
Date of issue …...................................

…................................... ….........................
(signature of the duly authorized official
issuing the Certificate)

(Seal or stamp of issuing authority, as appropriate)
*

Delete as appropriate

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PART B
GUIDANCE REGARDING THE PROVISIONS OF
CHAPTER XI-2 OF THE ANNEX TO THE
INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE SAFETY OF LIFE AT SEA, 1974 AS AMENDED
AND

PART A OF THIS CODE
1

INTRODUCTION

General
1.1
The preamble of this Code indicates that chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code establish
the new international framework of measures to enhance maritime security and through which
ships and port facilities can co-operate to detect and deter acts which threaten security in the
maritime transport sector.
1.2
This introduction outlines, in a concise manner, the processes envisaged in establishing
and implementing the measures and arrangements needed to achieve and maintain compliance
with the provisions of chapter XI-2 and of part A of this Code and identifies the main elements
on which guidance is offered. The guidance is provided in paragraphs 2 through to 19. It also sets
down essential considerations, which should be taken into account when considering the
application of the guidance relating to ships and port facilities.
1.3
If the reader’s interest relates to ships alone, it is strongly recommended that this Part of
the Code is still read as a whole, particularly the sections relating to port facilities. The same
applies to those whose primary interest are port facilities; they should also read the sections
relating to ships.
1.4
The guidance provided in the following sections relates primarily to protection of the ship
when it is at a port facility. There could, however, be situations when a ship may pose a threat to
the port facility, e.g. because, once within the port facility, it could be used as a base from which
to launch an attack. When considering the appropriate security measures to respond to
ship-based security threats, those completing the Port Facility Security Assessment or preparing
the Port Facility Security Plan should consider making appropriate adaptations to the guidance
offered in the following sections.
1.5
The reader is advised that nothing in this Part of the Code should be read or interpreted in
conflict with any of the provisions of either chapter XI-2 or part A of this Code and that the
aforesaid provisions always prevail and override any unintended inconsistency which may have
been inadvertently expressed in this Part of the Code. The guidance provided in this Part of the
Code should always be read, interpreted and applied in a manner which is consistent with the
aims, objectives and principles established in chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code.
Responsibilities of Contracting Governments
1.6
Contracting Governments have, under the provisions of chapter XI-2 and part A of this
Code, various responsibilities, which, amongst others, include:
-

setting the applicable security level;

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-

approving the Ship Security Plan and relevant amendments to a previously
approved plan;

-

verifying the compliance of ships with the provisions of chapter XI-2 and part A
of this Code and issuing to ships the International Ship Security Certificate;

-

determining which of the port facilities located within their territory are required
to designate a Port Facility Security Officer who will be responsible for the
preparation of the Port Facility Security Plan;

-

ensuring completion and approval of the Port Facility Security Assessment and of
any subsequent amendments to a previously approved assessment;

-

approving the Port Facility Security Plan and any subsequent amendments to a
previously approved plan; and

-

exercising control and compliance measures;

-

testing approved plans; and

-

communicating information to the International Maritime Organization and to the
shipping and port industries.

1.7
Contracting Governments can designate, or establish, Designated Authorities within
Government to undertake, with respect to port facilities, their security duties under chapter XI-2
and part A of this Code and allow Recognized Security Organizations to carry out certain work
with respect to port facilities but the final decision on the acceptance and approval of this work
should be given by the Contracting Government or the Designated Authority. Administrations
may also delegate the undertaking of certain security duties, relating to ships, to Recognized
Security Organizations. The following duties or activities cannot be delegated to a Recognized
Security Organization:
-

setting of the applicable security level;

-

determining which of the port facilities located within the territory of a
Contracting Government are required to designate a Port Facility Security Officer
and to prepare a Port Facility Security Plan;

-

approving a Port Facility Security Assessment or any subsequent amendments to a
previously approved assessment;

-

approving a Port Facility Security Plan or any subsequent amendments to a
previously approved plan;

-

exercising control and compliance measures; and

-

establishing the requirements for a Declaration of Security.

Setting the security level
1.8
The setting of the security level applying at any particular time is the responsibility of
Contracting Governments and can apply to ships and port facilities. Part A of this Code defines
three security levels for international use. These are:
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-

Security Level 1, normal; the level at which ships and port facilities normally
operate;

-

Security Level 2, heightened; the level applying for as long as there is a
heightened risk of a security incident; and

-

Security Level 3, exceptional, the level applying for the period of time when there
is the probable or imminent risk of a security incident.

The Company and the Ship
1.9
Any Company operating ships to which chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code apply has to
designate a Company Security Officer for the Company and a Ship Security Officer for each of
its ships. The duties, responsibilities and training requirements of these officers and requirements
for drills and exercises are defined in part A of this Code.
1.10 The Company Security Officer’s responsibilities include, in brief amongst others,
ensuring that a Ship Security Assessment is properly carried out, that a Ship Security Plan is
prepared and submitted for approval by, or on behalf of, the Administration and thereafter is
placed on board each ship to which part A of this Code applies and in respect of which that
person has been appointed as the Company Security Officer.
1.11 The Ship Security Plan should indicate the operational and physical security measures the
ship itself should take to ensure it always operates at security level 1. The plan should also
indicate the additional, or intensified, security measures the ship itself can take to move to and
operate at security level 2 when instructed to do so. Furthermore, the plan should indicate the
possible preparatory actions the ship could take to allow prompt response to the instructions that
may be issued to the ship by those responding at security level 3 to a security incident or threat
thereof.
1.12 The ships to which the requirements of chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code apply are
required to have, and operated in accordance with, a Ship Security Plan approved by, or on
behalf of, the Administration. The Company and Ship Security Officer should monitor the
continuing relevance and effectiveness of the plan, including the undertaking of internal audits.
Amendments to any of the elements of an approved plan, for which the Administration has
determined that approval is required, have to be submitted for review and approval before their
incorporation in the approved plan and their implementation by the ship.
1.13 The ship has to carry an International Ship Security Certificate indicating that it complies
with the requirements of chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code. Part A of this Code includes
provisions relating to the verification and certification of the ship’s compliance with the
requirements on an initial, renewal and intermediate verification basis.
1.14 When a ship is at a port or is proceeding to a port of a Contracting Government, the
Contracting Government has the right, under the provisions of regulation XI-2/9, to exercise
various control and compliance measures with respect to that ship. The ship is subject to port
State control inspections but such inspections will not normally extend to examination of the
Ship Security Plan itself except in specific circumstances. The ship may, also, be subject to
additional control measures if the Contracting Government exercising the control and compliance
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measures has reason to believe that the security of the ship has, or the port facilities it has served
have, been compromised.
1.15 The ship is also required to have onboard information, to be made available to
Contracting Governments upon request, indicating who is responsible for deciding the
employment of the ship’s personnel and for deciding various aspects relating to the employment
of the ship.
The port facility
1.16 Each Contracting Government has to ensure completion of a Port Facility Security
Assessment for each of the port facilities, located within its territory, serving ships engaged on
international voyages. The Contracting Government, a Designated Authority or a Recognized
Security Organization may carry out this assessment. The completed Port Facility Security
Assessment has to be approved by the Contracting Government or the Designated Authority
concerned. This approval cannot be delegated. Port Facility Security Assessments should be
periodically reviewed.
1.17 The Port Facility Security Assessment is fundamentally a risk analysis of all aspects of a
port facility’s operation in order to determine which part(s) of it are more susceptible, and/or
more likely, to be the subject of attack. Security risk is a function of the threat of an attack
coupled with the vulnerability of the target and the consequences of an attack.
The assessment must include the following components:
-

the perceived threat to port installations and infrastructure must be determined;

-

the potential vulnerabilities identified; and

-

the consequences of incidents calculated.

On completion of the analysis, it will be possible to produce an overall assessment of the level of
risk. The Port Facility Security Assessment will help determine which port facilities are required
to appoint a Port Facility Security Officer and prepare a Port Facility Security Plan.
1.18 The port facilities which have to comply with the requirements of chapter XI-2 and part A
of this Code are required to designate a Port Facility Security Officer. The duties, responsibilities
and training requirements of these officers and requirements for drills and exercises are defined
in part A of this Code.
1.19 The Port Facility Security Plan should indicate the operational and physical security
measures the port facility should take to ensure that it always operates at security level 1. The
plan should also indicate the additional, or intensified, security measures the port facility can take
to move to and operate at security level 2 when instructed to do so. Furthermore, the plan should
indicate the possible preparatory actions the port facility could take to allow prompt response to
the instructions that may be issued by those responding at security level 3 to a security incident
or threat thereof.
1.20 The port facilities which have to comply with the requirements of chapter XI-2 and part A
of this Code are required to have, and operate in accordance with, a Port Facility Security Plan
approved by the Contracting Government or by the Designated Authority concerned. The Port
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Facility Security Officer should implement its provisions and monitor the continuing
effectiveness and relevance of the plan, including commissioning internal audits of the
application of the plan. Amendments to any of the elements of an approved plan, for which the
Contracting Government or the Designated Authority concerned has determined that approval is
required, have to be submitted for review and approval before their incorporation in the approved
plan and their implementation at the port facility. The Contracting Government or the
Designated Authority concerned may test the effectiveness of the plan. The Port Facility
Security Assessment covering the port facility or on which the development of the plan has been
based should be regularly reviewed. All these activities may lead to amendment of the approved
plan. Any amendments to specified elements of an approved plan will have to be submitted for
approval by the Contracting Government or by the Designated Authority concerned.
1.21 Ships using port facilities may be subject to the port State control inspections and
additional control measures outlined in regulation XI-2/9. The relevant authorities may request
the provision of information regarding the ship, its cargo, passengers and ship’s personnel prior
to the ship’s entry into port. There may be circumstances in which entry into port could be
denied.
Information and communication
1.22 Chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code require Contracting Governments to provide certain
information to the International Maritime Organization and for information to be made available
to allow effective communication between Contracting Governments and between
Company/Ship Security Officers and the Port Facility Security Officers.
2

DEFINITIONS

2.1
No guidance is provided with respect to the definitions set out in chapter XI-2 or part A
of this Code.
2.2

3

For the purpose of this Part of the Code:
.1

“section” means a section of part A of the Code and is indicated as “section
A/”;

.2

“paragraph” means a paragraph of this Part of the Code and is indicated as
“paragraph ”; and

.3

“Contracting Government”, when used in paragraphs 14 to 18, means the
“Contracting Government within whose territory the port facility is located” and
includes a reference to the “Designated Authority”.

APPLICATION

General
3.1
The guidance given in this Part of the Code should be taken into account when
implementing the requirements of chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code.

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3.2
However, it should be recognized that the extent to which the guidance on ships applies
will depend on the type of ship, its cargoes and/or passengers, its trading pattern and the
characteristics of the port facilities visited by the ship.
3.3
Similarly, in relation to the guidance on port facilities, the extent to which this guidance
applies will depend on the port facilities, the types of ships using the port facility, the types of
cargo and/or passengers and the trading patterns of visiting ships.
3.4
The provisions of chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code are not intended to apply to port
facilities designed and used primarily for military purposes.
4

RESPONSIBILITIES OF CONTRACTING GOVERNMENTS

Security of assessments and plans
4.1
Contracting Governments should ensure that appropriate measures are in place to avoid
unauthorized disclosure of, or access to, security sensitive material relating to Ship Security
Assessments, Ship Security Plans, Port Facility Security Assessments and Port Facility Security
Plans, and to individual assessments or plans.
Designated authorities
4.2
Contracting Governments may identify a Designated Authority within Government to
undertake their security duties relating to port facilities as set out in chapter XI-2 or part A of
this Code.
Recognized Security Organizations
4.3
Contracting Governments may authorize a Recognized Security Organization (RSO) to
undertake certain security related activities, including:
.1

approval of Ship Security Plans, or amendments thereto, on behalf of the
Administration;

.2

verification and certification of compliance of ships with the requirements of
chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code on behalf of the Administration; and

.3

conducting Port Facility Security Assessments required by the Contracting
Government.

4.4
An RSO may also advise or provide assistance to Companies or port facilities on security
matters, including Ship Security Assessments, Ship Security Plans, Port Facility Security
Assessments and Port Facility Security Plans. This can include completion of a Ship Security
Assessment or Plan or Port Facility Security Assessment or Plan. If an RSO has done so in
respect of a ship security assessment or plan that RSO should not be authorized to approve that
ship security plan.
4.5
When authorizing an RSO, Contracting Governments should give consideration to the
competency of such an organization. An RSO should be able to demonstrate:
.1

expertise in relevant aspects of security;

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.2

appropriate knowledge of ship and port operations, including knowledge of ship
design and construction if providing services in respect of ships and port design
and construction if providing services in respect of port facilities;

.3

their capability to assess the likely security risks that could occur during ship and
port facility operations including the ship/port interface and how to minimise such
risks;

.4

their ability to maintain and improve the expertise of their personnel;

.5

their ability to monitor the continuing trustworthiness of their personnel;

.6

their ability to maintain appropriate measures to avoid unauthorized disclosure of,
or access to, security sensitive material;

.7

their knowledge of the requirements chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code and
relevant national and international legislation and security requirements;

.8

their knowledge of current security threats and patterns;

.9

their knowledge on recognition and detection of weapons, dangerous substances
and devices;

.10

their knowledge on recognition, on a non-discriminatory basis, of characteristics
and behavioural patterns of persons who are likely to threaten security;

.11

their knowledge on techniques used to circumvent security measures; and

.12

their knowledge of security and surveillance equipment and systems and their
operational limitations.

When delegating specific duties to a RSO, Contracting Governments, including Administrations,
should ensure that the RSO has the competencies needed to undertake the task.
4.6
A Recognized Organization, as defined in regulation I/6 and fulfilling the requirements of
regulation XI-1/1, may be appointed as a RSO provided it has the appropriate security related
expertise listed in paragraph 4.5.
4.7
A Port or Harbour Authority or Port Facility operator may be appointed as a RSO
provided it has the appropriate security related expertise listed in paragraph 4.5.
Setting the security level
4.8
In setting the security level Contracting Governments should take account of general and
specific threat information. Contracting Governments should set the security level applying to
ships or port facilities at one of three levels:
-

Security level 1: normal, the level at which the ship or port facility normally
operates;

-

Security level 2: heightened, the level applying for as long as there is a heightened
risk of a security incident; and

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-

Security level 3: exceptional, the level applying for the period of time when there
is the probable or imminent risk of a security incident.

4.9
Setting security level 3 should be an exceptional measure applying only when there is
credible information that a security incident is probable or imminent. Security level 3 should
only be set for the duration of the identified security threat or actual security incident. While the
security levels may change from security level 1, through security level 2 to security level 3, it is
also possible that the security levels will change directly from security level 1 to security level 3.
4.10 At all times the Master of a ship has the ultimate responsibility for the safety and security
of the ship. Even at security level 3 a Master may seek clarification or amendment of instructions
issued by those responding to a security incident, or threat thereof, if there are reasons to believe
that compliance with any instruction may imperil the safety of the ship.
4.11 The Company Security Officer (CSO) or the Ship Security Officer (SSO) should liase at
the earliest opportunity with the Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) of the port facility the ship
is intended to visit to establish the security level applying for that ship at the port facility.
Having established contact with a ship, the PFSO should advise the ship of any subsequent
change in the port facility’s security level and should provide the ship with any relevant security
information.
4.12 While there may be circumstances when an individual ship may be operating at a higher
security level than the port facility it is visiting, there will be no circumstances when a ship can
have a lower security level than the port facility it is visiting. If a ship has a higher security level
than the port facility it intends to use, the CSO or SSO should advise the PFSO without delay.
The PFSO should undertake an assessment of the particular situation in consultation with the
CSO or SSO and agree on appropriate security measures with the ship, which may include
completion and signing of a Declaration of Security.
4.13 Contracting Governments should consider how information on changes in security levels
should be promulgated rapidly. Administrations may wish to use NAVTEX messages or Notices
to Mariners as the method for notifying such changes in security levels to ship and CSO and
SSO. Or, they may wish to consider other methods of communication that provide equivalent or
better speed and coverage. Contracting Governments should establish means of notifying PFSOs
of changes in security levels. Contracting Governments should compile and maintain the contact
details for a list of those who need to be informed of changes in security levels. Whereas the
security level need not be regarded as being particularly sensitive, the underlying threat
information may be highly sensitive. Contracting Governments should give careful consideration
to the type and detail of the information conveyed and the method by which it is conveyed, to
SSOs, CSOs and PFSOs.
Contact points and information on Port Facility Security Plans
4.14 Where a port facility has a PFSP, that fact has to be communicated to the Organization
and that information must also be made available to Company and Ship Security Officers. No
further details of the PFSP have to be published other than that it is in place. Contracting
Governments should consider establishing either central or regional points of contact, or other
means of providing up to date information on the locations where PFSPs are in place, together
with contact details for the relevant PFSO. The existence of such contact points should be
publicised. They could also provide information on the recognized security organizations
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appointed to act on behalf of the Contracting Government, together with details of the specific
responsibility and conditions of authority delegated to such recognized security organizations.
4.15 In the case of a port that does not have a PFSP (and therefore does not have a PFSO) the
central or regional point of contact should be able to identify a suitably qualified person ashore
who can arrange for appropriate security measures to be in place, if needed, for the duration of
the ship’s visit.
4.16 Contracting Governments should also provide the contact details of Government officers
to whom an SSO, a CSO and a PFSO can report security concerns. These Government officers
should assess such reports before taking appropriate action. Such reported concerns may have a
bearing on the security measures falling under the jurisdiction of another Contracting
Government. In that case, the Contracting Governments should consider contacting their
counterpart in the other Contracting Government to discuss whether remedial action is
appropriate. For this purpose, the contact details of the Government officers should be
communicated to the International Maritime Organization.
4.17 Contracting Governments should also make the information indicated in paragraphs 4.14
to 4.16, available to other Contracting Governments on request.
Identification documents
4.18 Contracting Governments are encouraged to issue appropriate identification documents to
Government officials entitled to board ships or enter port facilities when performing their official
duties and to establish procedures whereby the authenticity of such documents might be verified.
Fixed and floating platforms and mobile offshore drilling units on location
4.19 Contracting Governments should consider establishing appropriate security measures for
fixed and floating platforms and mobile offshore drilling units on location to allow interaction
with ships which are required to comply with the provisions of chapter XI-2 and part A of this
Code1.
Ships which are not required to comply with part A of this Code
4.20 Contracting Governments should consider establishing appropriate security measures to
enhance the security of ships to which this chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code does not apply
and to ensure that any security provisions applying to such ships allow interaction with ships to
which part A of this Code applies.
Threats to ships and other incidents at sea
4.21 Contracting Governments should provide general guidance on the measures considered
appropriate to reduce the security risk to ships flying their flag when at sea. They should provide
specific advice on the action to be taken in accordance with security levels 1 to 3, if:

1

Refer to Establishment of appropriate measures to enhance the security of ships, port facilities, mobile offshore
drilling units on location and fixed and floating platforms not covered by chapter XI-2 of 1974 SOLAS Convention,
adopted by the Conference on Maritime Security by resolution 7.
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.1

there is a change in the security level applying to the ship while it is at sea, e.g.
because of the geographical area in which it is operating or relating to the ship
itself; and

.2

there is a security incident or threat thereof involving the ship while at sea.

Contracting Governments should establish the best methods and procedures for these purposes.
In the case of an imminent attack the ship should seek to establish direct communication with
those responsible in the flag State for responding to security incidents.
4.22 Contracting Governments should also establish a point of contact for advice on security
for any ship:
.1

entitled to fly their flag; or

.2

operating in their territorial sea or having communicated an intention to enter their
territorial sea.

4.23 Contracting Governments should offer advice to ships operating in their territorial sea or
having communicated an intention to enter their territorial sea, which could include advice:
.1

to alter or delay their intended passage;

.2

to navigate on a particular course or proceed to a specific location;

.3

on the availability of any personnel or equipment that could be placed on the ship;

.4

to co-ordinate the passage, arrival into port or departure from port, to allow escort
by patrol craft or aircraft (fixed-wing or helicopter).

Contracting Governments should remind ships operating in their territorial sea, or having
communicated an intention to enter their territorial sea, of any temporary restricted areas that
they have published.
4.24
Contracting Governments should recommend that ships operating in their territorial sea,
or having communicated an intention to enter their territorial sea, implement expeditiously, for
the ship’s protection and for the protection of other ships in the vicinity, any security measure the
Contracting Government may have advised.
4.25
The plans prepared by the Contracting Governments for the purposes given in
paragraph 4.22 should include information on an appropriate point of contact, available on a 24hour basis, within the Contracting Government including the Administration. These plans should
also include information on the circumstances in which the Administration considers assistance
should be sought from nearby coastal States, and a procedure for liaison between port facility
security officers and ship security officers.
Alternative security agreements
4.26 Contracting Governments, in considering how to implement chapter XI-2 and part A of
this Code, may conclude one or more agreements with one or more Contracting Governments.
The scope of an agreement is limited to short international voyages on fixed routes between port
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facilities in the territory of the parties to the agreement. When concluding an agreement, and
thereafter, the Contracting Governments should consult other Contracting Governments and
Administrations with an interest in the effects of the agreement. Ships flying the flag of a State
that is not party to the agreement should only be allowed to operate on the fixed routes covered
by the agreement if their Administration agrees that the ship should comply with the provisions
of the agreement and requires the ship to do so. In no case can such an agreement compromise
the level of security of other ships and port facilities not covered by it, and specifically, all ships
covered by such an agreement may not conduct ship-to-ship activities with ships not so covered.
Any operational interface undertaken by ships covered by the agreement should be covered by it.
The operation of each agreement must be continually monitored and amended when the need
arises and in any event should be reviewed every 5 years.
Equivalent arrangements for port facilities
4.27 For certain specific port facilities with limited or special operations but with more than
occasional traffic, it may be appropriate to ensure compliance by security measures equivalent to
those prescribed in chapter XI-2 and in part A of this Code. This can, in particular, be the case
for terminals such as those attached to factories, or quaysides with no frequent operations.
Manning level
4.28 In establishing the minimum safe manning of a ship the Administration should take into
account2 that the minimum safe manning provisions established by regulation V/143 only address
the safe navigation of the ship. The Administration should also take into account any additional
workload which may result from the implementation of the ship’s security plan and ensure that
the ship is sufficiently and effectively manned. In doing so the Administration should verify that
ships are able to implement the hours of rest and other measures to address fatigue which have
been promulgated by national law, in the context of all shipboard duties assigned to the various
shipboard personnel.
Control and compliance measures4
General
4.29 Regulation XI-2/9 describes the control and compliance measures applicable to ships
under chapter XI-2. It is divided into three distinct sections; control of ships already in a port,
control of ships intending to enter a port of another Contracting Government, and additional
provisions applicable to both situations.
4.30 Regulation XI-2/9.1, control of ships in port, implements a system for the control of ships
while in the port of a foreign country where duly authorized officers of the Contracting
Government (duly authorized officers) have the right to go on board the ship to verify that the
required certificates are in proper order. Then if there are clear grounds to believe the ship does
2

Refer to Further Work by the International Maritime Organization pertaining to Enhancement of Maritime
Security, adopted by the Conference on Maritime Security by resolution 3, inviting, amongst others, the
Organization to review Assembly Resolution A.890(21) on Principles of Safe Manning. This review may also lead to
amendments of regulation V/14.
3
As was in force on the date of adoption of this Code.
4
Refer to Further Work by the International Maritime Organization pertaining to Enhancement of Maritime
Security, adopted by the Conference on Maritime Security by resolution 3, inviting, amongst others, the
Organization to review Assembly Resolutions A.787(19) and A.882(21) on Procedures for Port State Control.
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not comply, control measures such as additional inspections or detention may be taken. This
reflects current control systems5. Regulation XI-2/9.1 builds on such systems and allows for
additional measures (including expulsion of a ship from a port to be taken as a control measure)
when duly authorized officers have clear grounds for believing that a ship is in non-compliance
with the requirements of chapter XI-2 or part A of this Code. Regulation XI-2/9.3 describes the
safeguards that promote fair and proportionate implementation of these additional measures.
4.31 Regulation XI-2/9.2 applies control measures to ensure compliance to ships intending to
enter a port of another Contracting Government and introduces an entirely different concept of
control within chapter XI-2, applying to security only. Under this regulation measures may be
implemented prior to the ship entering port, to better ensure security. Just as in regulation
XI-2/9.1, this additional control system is based on the concept of clear grounds for believing the
ship does not comply with chapter XI-2 or part A of this Code, and includes significant
safeguards in regulations XI-2/9.2.2 and XI-2/9.2.5 as well as in regulation XI-2/9.3.
4.32 Clear grounds that the ship is not in compliance means evidence or reliable information
that the ship does not correspond with the requirements of chapter XI-2 or part A of this Code,
taking into account the guidance given in this Part of the Code. Such evidence or reliable
information may arise from the duly authorized officer’s professional judgement or observations
gained while verifying the ship’s International Ship Security Certificate or Interim International
Ship Security Certificate issued in accordance with part A of this Code (certificate) or from other
sources. Even if a valid certificate is on board the ship, the duly authorized officers may still have
clear grounds for believing that the ship is not in compliance based on their professional
judgment.
4.33 Examples of possible clear grounds under regulations XI-2/9.1 and XI-2/9.2 may include,
when relevant:

5

.1

evidence from a review of the certificate that it is not valid or it has expired;

.2

evidence or reliable information that serious deficiencies exist in the security
equipment, documentation or arrangements required by chapter XI-2 and part A of
this Code;

.3

receipt of a report or complaint which, in the professional judgment of the duly
authorized officer, contains reliable information clearly indicating that the ship
does not comply with the requirements of chapter XI-2 or part A of this Code;

.4

evidence or observation gained by a duly authorized officer using professional
judgment that the master or ship’s personnel is not familiar with essential
shipboard security procedures or cannot carry out drills related to the security of
the ship or that such procedures or drills have not been carried out;

.5

evidence or observation gained by a duly authorized officer using professional
judgment that key members ship’s personnel are not able to establish proper
communication with any other key members of ship’s personnel with security
responsibilities on board the ship;

See regulation I/19 and regulation IX/6.2 of SOLAS 74 as amended, article 21 of LOADLINE 66 as modified by
the 1988 LOADLINE Protocol, articles 5 and 6, regulation 8A of Annex I, regulation 15 of Annex II of
MARPOL 73/78 as amended, article X of STCW 78 as amended and IMO Assembly Resolutions A.787(19) and
A.882(21).
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.6

evidence or reliable information that the ship has embarked persons, or loaded
stores or goods at a port facility or from another ship where either the port facility
or the other ship is in violation of chapter XI-2 or part A of this Code, and the ship
in question has not completed a Declaration of Security, nor taken appropriate,
special or additional security measures or has not maintained appropriate ship
security procedures;

.7

evidence or reliable information that the ship has embarked persons, or loaded
stores or goods at a port facility or from another source (e.g., another ship or
helicopter transfer) where either the port facility or the other source is not required
to comply with chapter XI-2 or part A of this Code, and the ship has not taken
appropriate, special or additional security measures or has not maintained
appropriate security procedures; and

.8

if the ship holds a subsequent, consecutively issued Interim International Ship
Security Certificate as described in section A/19.4, and if, in the professional
judgment of an officer duly authorized, one of the purposes of the ship or a
Company in requesting such a certificate is to avoid full compliance with
chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code beyond the period of the initial interim
certificate as described in section A/19.4.4.

4.34 The international law implications of regulation XI-2/9 are particularly relevant, and the
regulation should be implemented with regulation XI-2/2.4 in mind, as the potential exists for
situations where either measures will be taken which fall outside the scope of chapter XI-2, or
where rights of affected ships, outside chapter XI-2, should be considered. Thus, regulation
XI-2/9 does not prejudice the Contracting Government from taking measures having a basis in,
and consistent with, international law, to ensure the safety or security of persons, ships, port
facilities and other property in cases where the ship, although in compliance with chapter XI-2
and part A of this Code, is still considered to present a security risk.
4.35
When a Contracting Government imposes control measures on a ship, the
Administration should, without delay, be contacted with sufficient information to enable the
Administration to fully liaise with the Contracting Government.
Control of ships in port
4.36 Where the non-compliance is either a defective item of equipment or faulty
documentation leading to the ship’s detention and the non-compliance cannot be remedied in the
port of inspection, the Contracting Government may allow the ship to sail to another port
provided that any conditions agreed between the port States and the Administration or master are
met.
Ships intending to enter the port of another Contracting Government
4.37 Regulation XI-2/9.2.1 lists the information Contracting Governments may require from a
ship as a condition of entry into port. One item of information listed is confirmation of any
special or additional measures taken by the ship during its last ten calls at a port facility.
Examples could include:

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.1

records of the measures taken while visiting a port facility located in the territory
of a State which is not a Contracting Government especially those measures that
would normally have been provided by port facilities located in the territories of
Contracting Governments; and

.2

any Declarations of Security that were entered into with port facilities or other
ships.

4.38 Another item of information listed, that may be required as a condition of entry into port,
is confirmation that appropriate ship security procedures were maintained during ship-to-ship
activity conducted within the period of the last 10 calls at a port facility. It would not normally
be required to include records of transfers of pilots, customs, immigration, security officials nor
bunkering, lightering, loading of supplies and unloading of waste by ship within port facilities as
these would normally fall within the auspices of the Port Facility Security Plan. Examples of
information that might be given include:
.1

records of the measures taken while engaged in a ship to ship activity with a ship
flying the flag of a State which is not a Contracting Government especially those
measures that would normally have been provided by ships flying the flag of
Contracting Governments;

.2

records of the measures taken while engaged in a ship to ship activity with a ship
that is flying the flag of a Contracting Government but is not required to comply
with the provisions of chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code such as a copy of any
security certificate issued to that ship under other provisions; and

.3

in the event that persons or goods rescued at sea are on board, all known
information about such persons or goods, including their identities when known
and the results of any checks run on behalf of the ship to establish the security
status of those rescued. It is not the intention of chapter XI-2 or part A of this
Code to delay or prevent the delivery of those in distress at sea to a place of
safety. It is the sole intention of chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code to provide
States with enough appropriate information to maintain their security integrity.

4.39 Examples of other practical security related information that may be required as a
condition of entry into port in order to assist with ensuring the safety and security of persons, port
facilities, ships and other property include:
.1

information contained in the Continuous Synopsis Record;

.2

location of the ship at the time the report is made;

.3

expected time of arrival of the ship in port;

.4

crew list;

.5

general description of cargo aboard the ship;

.6

passenger list; and

.7

information required to be carried under regulation XI-2/5.

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4.40 Regulation XI-2/9.2.5 allows the master of a ship, upon being informed that the coastal or
port State will implement control measures under regulation XI-2/9.2, to withdraw the intention
for the ship to enter port. If the master withdraws that intention, regulation XI-2/9 no longer
applies, and any other steps that are taken must be based on, and consistent with, international
law.
Additional provisions
4.41 In all cases where a ship is denied entry or expelled from a port, all known facts should be
communicated to the authorities of relevant States. This communication should consist of the
following when known:
.1

name of ship, its flag, the ship’s identification number, call sign, ship type and
cargo;

.2

reason for denying entry or expulsion from port or port areas;

.3

if relevant, the nature of any security non-compliance;

.4

if relevant, details of any attempts made to rectify any non-compliance, including
any conditions imposed on the ship for the voyage;

.5

past port(s) of call and next declared port of call;

.6

time of departure and likely estimated time of arrival at those ports;

.7

any instructions given to ship, e.g., reporting on route;

.8

available information on the security level at which the ship is currently operating;

.9

information regarding any communications the port State has had with the
Administration;

.10

contact point within the port State making the report for the purpose of obtaining
further information;

.11

crew list; and

.12

any other relevant information.

4.42 Relevant States to contact should include those along the ship’s intended passage to its
next port, particularly if the ship intends to enter the territorial sea of that coastal State. Other
relevant States could include previous ports of call, so that further information might be obtained
and security issues relating to the previous ports resolved.
4.43 In exercising control and compliance measures, the duly authorized officers should ensure
that any measures or steps imposed are proportionate. Such measures or steps should be
reasonable and of the minimum severity and duration necessary to rectify or mitigate the noncompliance.
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4.44 The word “delay” in regulation XI-2/9.3.5.1 also refers to situations where, pursuant to
actions taken under this regulation, the ship is unduly denied entry into port or the ship is unduly
expelled from port.
Non-party ships and ships below convention size
4.45 With respect to ships flying the flag of a State which is not a Contracting Government to
the Convention and not a Party to the 1988 SOLAS Protocol6, Contracting Governments should
not give more favourable treatment to such ships. Accordingly, the requirements of regulation
XI-2/9 and the guidance provided in this Part of the Code should be applied to those ships.
4.46 Ships below Convention size are subject to measures by which States maintain security.
Such measures should be taken with due regard to the requirements in chapter XI-2 and the
guidance provided in this Part of the Code.
5

DECLARATION OF SECURITY

General
5.1
A Declaration of Security (DoS) should be completed when the Contracting Government
of the port facility deems it to be necessary or when a ship deems it necessary.
5.1.1 The need for a DoS may be indicated by the results of the Port Facility Security
Assessment (PFSA) and the reasons and circumstances in which a DoS is required should be set
out in the Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP).
5.1.2 The need for a DoS may be indicated by an Administration for ships entitled to fly its flag
or as a result of a ship security assessment and should be set out in the ship security plan.
5.2
It is likely that a DoS will be requested at higher security levels, when a ship has a higher
security level than the port facility, or another ship with which it interfaces, and for ship/port
interface or ship to ship activities that pose a higher risk to persons, property or the environment
for reasons specific to that ship, including its cargo or passengers or the circumstances at the port
facility or a combination of these factors.
5.2.1 In the case that a ship or an Administration, on behalf of ships entitled to fly its flag,
requests completion of a DoS, the Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) or Ship Security Officer
(SSO) should acknowledge the request and discuss appropriate security measures.
5.3
A PFSO may also initiate a DoS prior to ship/port interfaces that are identified in the
approved PFSA as being of particular concern. Examples may include the embarking or
disembarking passengers, and the transfer, loading or unloading of dangerous goods or hazardous
substances. The PFSA may also identify facilities at or near highly populated areas or
economically significant operations that warrant a DoS.
5.4
The main purpose of a DoS is to ensure agreement is reached between the ship and the
port facility or with other ships with which it interfaces as to the respective security measures
each will undertake in accordance with the provisions of their respective approved security plans.
6

Protocol of 1988 relating to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974.

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5.4.1 The agreed DoS should be signed and dated by both the port facility and the ship(s), as
applicable, to indicate compliance with chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code and should include
its duration, the relevant security level, or levels and the relevant contact details.
5.4.2

A change in the security level may require that a new or revised DoS be completed.

5.5
The DoS should be completed in English, French or Spanish or in a language common to
both the port facility and the ship or the ships, as applicable.
5.6
A model DoS is included in Appendix 1 to this Part of the Code. This model is for a DoS
between a ship and a port facility. If the DoS is to cover two ships this model should be
appropriately adjusted.
6

OBLIGATIONS OF THE COMPANY

General
6.1
Regulation XI-2/5 requires the company to provide the master of the ship with
information to meet the requirements of the Company under the provisions of this regulation.
This information should include items such as:
.1

parties responsible for appointing shipboard personnel, such as ship management
companies, manning agents, contractors, concessionaries (for example, retail sales
outlets, casinos, etc.);

.2

parties responsible for deciding the employment of the ship including, time or
bareboat charterer(s) or any other entity acting in such capacity; and

.3

in cases when the ship is employed under the terms of a charter party, the contact
details of those parties including time or voyage charterers.

6.2
In accordance with regulation XI-2/5 the Company is obliged to update and keep this
information current as and when changes occur.
6.3

This information should be in English, French or Spanish language.

6.4
With respect to ships constructed before 1 July 2004, this information should reflect the
actual condition on that date.
6.5
With respect to ships constructed on or after 1 July 2004 and for ships constructed before
1 July 2004 which were out of service on 1 July 2004, the information should be provided as
from the date of entry of the ship into service and should reflect the actual condition on that date.
6.6
After 1 July 2004 when a ship is withdrawn from service the information should be
provided as from the date of re-entry of the ship into service and should reflect the actual
condition on that date.
6.7
Previously provided information that does not relate to the actual condition on that date
need not be retained on board.
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6.8
When the responsibility for the operation of the ship is assumed by another Company, the
information relating to the Company, which operated the ship, is not required to be left on board.
In addition other relevant guidance is provided under sections 8, 9 and 13.
7

SHIP SECURITY
Relevant guidance is provided under sections 8, 9 and 13.

8

SHIP SECURITY ASSESSMENT

Security assessment
8.1
The Company Security Officer (CSO) is responsible for ensuring that a Ship Security
Assessment (SSA) is carried out for each of the ships in the Company’s fleet which is required to
comply with the provisions of chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code for which the CSO is
responsible. While the CSO need not necessarily personally undertake all the duties associated
with the post, the ultimate responsibility for ensuring that they are properly performed remains
with the individual CSO.
8.2
Prior to commencing the SSA, the CSO should ensure that advantage is taken of
information available on the assessment of threat for the ports at which the ship will call or at
which passengers embark or disembark and about the port facilities and their protective
measures. The CSO should study previous reports on similar security needs. Where feasible, the
CSO should meet with appropriate persons on the ship and in the port facilities to discuss the
purpose and methodology of the assessment. The CSO should follow any specific guidance
offered by the Contracting Governments.
8.3

8.4

A SSA should address the following elements on board or within the ship:
.1

physical security;

.2

structural integrity;

.3

personnel protection systems;

.4

procedural policies;

.5

radio and telecommunication systems, including computer systems and networks;
and

.6

other areas that may, if damaged or used for illicit observation, pose a risk to
persons, property, or operations on board the ship or within a port facility.

Those involved in a SSA should be able to draw upon expert assistance in relation to:
.1

knowledge of current security threats and patterns;

.2

recognition and detection of weapons, dangerous substances and devices;

.3

recognition, on a non-discriminatory basis, of characteristics and behavioural
patterns of persons who are likely to threaten security;

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.4

techniques used to circumvent security measures;

.5

methods used to cause a security incident;

.6

effects of explosives on ship’s structures and equipment;

.7

ship security;

.8

ship/port interface business practices;

.9

contingency planning, emergency preparedness and response;

.10

physical security;

.11

radio and telecommunications systems, including computer systems and networks;

.12

marine engineering; and

.13

ship and port operations.

8.5
The CSO should obtain and record the information required to conduct an assessment,
including:
.1

the general layout of the ship;

.2

the location of areas which should have restricted access, such as navigation
bridge, machinery spaces of category A and other control stations as defined in
chapter II-2, etc.;

.3

the location and function of each actual or potential access point to the ship;

.4

changes in the tide which may have an impact on the vulnerability or security of
the ship;

.5

the cargo spaces and stowage arrangements;

.6

the locations where the ship’s stores and essential maintenance equipment is
stored;

.7

the locations where unaccompanied baggage is stored;

.8

the emergency and stand-by equipment available to maintain essential services;

.9

the number of ship’s personnel, any existing security duties and any existing
training requirement practises of the Company;

.10

existing security and safety equipment for the protection of passengers and ship’s
personnel;

.11

escape and evacuation routes and assembly stations which have to be maintained
to ensure the orderly and safe emergency evacuation of the ship;

.12

existing agreements with private security companies providing ship/waterside
security services; and

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.13

existing security measures and procedures in effect, including inspection and,
control procedures, identification systems, surveillance and monitoring
equipment, personnel identification documents and communication, alarms,
lighting, access control and other appropriate systems.

8.6
The SSA should examine each identified point of access, including open weather decks,
and evaluate its potential for use by individuals who might seek to breach security. This includes
points of access available to individuals having legitimate access as well as those who seek to
obtain unauthorized entry.
8.7
The SSA should consider the continuing relevance of the existing security measures and
guidance, procedures and operations, under both routine and emergency conditions and should
determine security guidance including:
.1

the restricted areas;

.2

the response procedures to fire or other emergency conditions;

.3

the level of supervision of the ship’s personnel, passengers, visitors, vendors,
repair technicians, dock workers, etc.;

.4

the frequency and effectiveness of security patrols;

.5

the access control systems, including identification systems;

.6

the security communications systems and procedures;

.7

the security doors, barriers and lighting; and

.8

the security and surveillance equipment and systems, if any.

8.8
The SSA should consider the persons, activities, services and operations that it is
important to protect. This includes:
.1

the ship’s personnel;

.2

passengers, visitors, vendors, repair technicians, port facility personnel, etc;

.3

the capacity to maintain safe navigation and emergency response;

.4

the cargo, particularly dangerous goods or hazardous substances;

.5

the ship’s stores;

.6

the ship security communication equipment and systems, if any; and

.7

the ship’s security surveillance equipment and systems, if any.

8.9
The SSA should consider all possible threats, which may include the following types of
security incidents:
.1

damage to, or destruction of, the ship or of a port facility, e.g. by explosive
devices, arson, sabotage or vandalism;

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8.10

.2

hijacking or seizure of the ship or of persons on board;

.3

tampering with cargo, essential ship equipment or systems or ship’s stores;

.4

unauthorized access or use, including presence of stowaways;

.5

smuggling weapons or equipment, including weapons of mass destruction;

.6

use of the ship to carry those intending to cause a security incident and/or their
equipment;

.7

use of the ship itself as a weapon or as a means to cause damage or destruction;

.8

attacks from seaward whilst at berth or at anchor; and

.9

attacks whilst at sea.

The SSA should take into account all possible vulnerabilities, which may include:
.1

conflicts between safety and security measures;

.2

conflicts between shipboard duties and security assignments;

.3

watch-keeping duties, number of ship’s personnel, particularly with implications
on crew fatigue, alertness and performance;

.4

any identified security training deficiencies; and

.5

any security equipment and systems, including communication systems.

8.11 The CSO and SSO should always have regard to the effect that security measures may
have on ship’s personnel who will remain on the ship for long periods. When developing security
measures, particular consideration should be given to the convenience, comfort and personal
privacy of the ship’s personnel and their ability to maintain their effectiveness over long periods.
8.12 Upon completion of the SSA, a report shall be prepared, consisting of a summary of how
the assessment was conducted, a description of each vulnerability found during the assessment
and a description of counter measures that could be used to address each vulnerability. The
report shall be protected from unauthorized access or disclosure.
8.13 If the SSA has not been carried out by the Company, the report of the SSA should be
reviewed and accepted by the CSO.
On-scene security survey
8.14 The on-scene security survey is an integral part of any SSA. The on-scene security survey
should examine and evaluate existing shipboard protective measures, procedures and operations
for:
.1

ensuring the performance of all ship security duties;

.2

monitoring restricted areas to ensure that only authorized persons have access;

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9

.3

controlling access to the ship, including any identification systems;

.4

monitoring of deck areas and areas surrounding the ship;

.5

controlling the embarkation of persons and their effects (accompanied and
unaccompanied baggage and ship’s personnel personal effects);

.6

supervising the handling of cargo and the delivery of ship’s stores; and

.7

ensuring that ship security communication, information, and equipment are
readily available.

SHIP SECURITY PLAN

General
9.1
The Company Security Officer (CSO) has the responsibility of ensuring that a Ship
Security Plan (SSP) is prepared and submitted for approval. The content of each individual SSP
should vary depending on the particular ship it covers. The Ship Security Assessment (SSA) will
have identified the particular features of the ship and the potential threats and vulnerabilities. The
preparation of the SSP will require these features to be addressed in detail. Administrations may
prepare advice on the preparation and content of a SSP.
9.2

All SSPs should:
.1

detail the organizational structure of security for the ship;

.2

detail the ship’s relationships with the Company, port facilities, other ships and
relevant authorities with security responsibility;

.3

detail the communication systems to allow effective continuous communication
within the ship and between the ship and others, including port facilities;

.4

detail the basic security measures for security level 1, both operational and
physical, that will always be in place;

.5

detail the additional security measures that will allow the ship to progress without
delay to security level 2 and, when necessary, to security level 3;

.6

provide for regular review, or audit, of the SSP and for its amendment in response
to experience or changing circumstances; and

.7

reporting procedures to the appropriate Contracting Governments contact points.

9.3
Preparation of an effective SSP should rest on a thorough assessment of all issues that
relate to the security of the ship, including, in particular, a thorough appreciation of the physical
and operational characteristics, including the voyage pattern, of the individual ship.
9.4
All SSPs should be approved by, or on behalf of, the Administration. If an
Administration uses a Recognized Security Organization (RSO) to review or approve the SSP the
RSO should not be associated with any other RSO that prepared, or assisted in the preparation of,
the plan.
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9.5

CSOs and Ship Security Officers (SSOs) should develop procedures to:
.1

assess the continuing effectiveness of the SSP; and

.2

prepare amendments of the plan subsequent to its approval.

9.6
The security measures included in the SSP should be in place when the initial verification
for compliance with the requirements of chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code will be carried out.
Otherwise the process of issue to the ship of the required International Ship Security Certificate
cannot be carried out. If there is any subsequent failure of security equipment or systems, or
suspension of a security measure for whatever reason, equivalent temporary security measures
should be adopted, notified to, and agreed by, the Administration.
Organization and performance of ship security duties
9.7
In addition to the guidance given in section 9.2, the SSP should establish the following
which relate to all security levels:
.1

the duties and responsibilities of all shipboard personnel with a security role;

.2

the procedures or safeguards necessary to allow such continuous communications
to be maintained at all times;

.3

the procedures needed to assess the continuing effectiveness of security
procedures and any security and surveillance equipment and systems, including
procedures for identifying and responding to equipment or systems failure or
malfunction;

.4

the procedures and practices to protect security sensitive information held in paper
or electronic format;

.5

the type and maintenance requirements, of security and surveillance equipment
and systems, if any;

.6

the procedures to ensure the timely submission, and assessment, of reports relating
to possible breaches of security or security concerns; and

.7

procedures to establish, maintain and up-date an inventory of any dangerous
goods or hazardous substances carried on board, including their location.

9.8
The remainder of this section addresses specifically the security measures that could be
taken at each security level covering:
.1

access to the ship by ship’s personnel, passengers, visitors, etc;

.2

restricted areas on the ship;

.3

handling of cargo;

.4

delivery of ship’s stores;

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.5

handling unaccompanied baggage; and

.6

monitoring the security of the ship.

Access to the ship
9.9
The SSP should establish the security measures covering all means of access to the ship
identified in the SSA. This should include any:
.1

access ladders;

.2

access gangways;

.3

access ramps;

.4

access doors, side scuttles, windows and ports;

.5

mooring lines and anchor chains; and

.6

cranes and hoisting gear.

9.10 For each of these the SSP should identify the appropriate locations where access
restrictions or prohibitions should be applied for each of the security levels. For each security
level the SSP should establish the type of restriction or prohibition to be applied and the means of
enforcing them.
9.11 The SSP should establish for each security level the means of identification required to
allow access to the ship and for individuals to remain on the ship without challenge, this may
involve developing an appropriate identification system allowing for permanent and temporary
identifications, for ship’s personnel and visitors respectively. Any ship identification system
should, when it is practicable to do so, be co-ordinated with that applying to the port facility.
Passengers should be able to prove their identity by boarding passes, tickets, etc., but should not
be permitted access to restricted areas unless supervised. The SSP should establish provisions to
ensure that the identification systems are regularly updated, and that abuse of procedures should
be subject to disciplinary action.
9.12 Those unwilling or unable to establish their identity and/or to confirm the purpose of their
visit when requested to do so should be denied access to the ship and their attempt to obtain
access should be reported, as appropriate, to the SSOs, the CSOs, the Port Facility Security
Officer (PFSO) and to the national or local authorities with security responsibilities.
9.13 The SSP should establish the frequency of application of any access controls particularly
if they are to be applied on a random, or occasional, basis.
Security Level 1
9.14 At security level 1, the SSP should establish the security measures to control access to the
ship, where the following may be applied:
.1

checking the identity of all persons seeking to board the ship and confirming their
reasons for doing so by checking, for example, joining instructions, passenger
tickets, boarding passes, work orders etc;

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.2

in liaison with the port facility the ship should ensure that designated secure areas
are established in which inspections and searching of persons, baggage (including
carry on items), personal effects, vehicles and their contents can take place;

.3

in liaison with the port facility the ship should ensure that vehicles destined to be
loaded on board car carriers, ro-ro and other passenger ships are subjected to
search prior to loading, in accordance with the frequency required in the SSP;

.4

segregating checked persons and their personal effects from unchecked persons
and their personal effects;

.5

segregating embarking from disembarking passengers;

.6

identification of access points that should be secured or attended to prevent
unauthorized access;

.7

securing, by locking or other means, access to unattended spaces adjoining areas
to which passengers and visitors have access; and

.8

providing security briefings to all ship personnel on possible threats, the
procedures for reporting suspicious persons, objects or activities and the need for
vigilance.

9.15 At security level 1, all those seeking to board a ship should be liable to search. The
frequency of such searches, including random searches, should be specified in the approved SSP
and should be specifically approved by the Administration. Such searches may best be
undertaken by the port facility in close co-operation with the ship and in close proximity to it.
Unless there are clear security grounds for doing so, members of the ship’s personnel should not
be required to search their colleagues or their personal effects. Any such search shall be
undertaken in a manner which fully takes into account the human rights of the individual and
preserves their basic human dignity.
Security Level 2
9.16 At security level 2, the SSP should establish the security measures to be applied to protect
against a heightened risk of a security incident to ensure higher vigilance and tighter control,
which may include:
.1

assigning additional personnel to patrol deck areas during silent hours to deter
unauthorized access;

.2

limiting the number of access points to the ship, identifying those to be closed and
the means of adequately securing them;

.3

deterring waterside access to the ship, including, for example, in liaison with the
port facility, provision of boat patrols;

.4

establishing a restricted area on the shore-side of the ship, in close co-operation
with the port facility;

.5

increasing the frequency and detail of searches of persons, personal effects, and
vehicles being embarked or loaded onto the ship;

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.6

escorting visitors on the ship;

.7

providing additional specific security briefings to all ship personnel on any
identified threats, re-emphasising the procedures for reporting suspicious persons,
objects, or activities and the stressing the need for increased vigilance; and

.8

carrying out a full or partial search of the ship.

Security Level 3
9.17 At security level 3, the ship should comply with the instructions issued by those
responding to the security incident or threat thereof. The SSP should detail the security measures
which could be taken by the ship, in close co-operation with those responding and the port
facility, which may include:
.1

limiting access to a single, controlled, access point;

.2

granting access only to those responding to the security incident or threat thereof;

.3

directions of persons on board;

.4

suspension of embarkation or disembarkation;

.5

suspension of cargo handling operations, deliveries etc;

.6

evacuation of the ship;

.7

movement of the ship; and

.8

preparing for a full or partial search of the ship.

Restricted areas on the ship
9.18 The SSP should identify the restricted areas to be established on the ship, specify their
extent, times of application, the security measures to be taken to control access to them and those
to be taken to control activities within them. The purpose of restricted areas are to:
.1

prevent unauthorized access;

.2

protect passengers, ship's personnel, and personnel from port facilities or other
agencies authorized to be on board the ship;

.3

protect sensitive security areas within the ship; and

.4

protect cargo and ship's stores from tampering.

9.19 The SSP should ensure that there are clearly established policies and practices to control
access to all restricted areas them.
9.20 The SSP should provide that all restricted areas should be clearly marked indicating that
access to the area is restricted and that unauthorized presence within the area constitutes a breach
of security.
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9.21

Restricted areas may include:
.1

navigation bridge, machinery spaces of category A and other control stations as
defined in chapter II-2;

.2

spaces containing security and surveillance equipment and systems and their
controls and lighting system controls;

.3

ventilation and air-conditioning systems and other similar spaces;

.4

spaces with access to potable water tanks, pumps, or manifolds;

.5

spaces containing dangerous goods or hazardous substances;

.6

spaces containing cargo pumps and their controls;

.7

cargo spaces and spaces containing ship’s stores;

.8

crew accommodation; and

.9

any other areas as determined by the CSO, through the SSA to which access must
be restricted to maintain the security of the ship.

Security Level 1
9.22 At security level 1, the SSP should establish the security measures to be applied to
restricted areas, which may include:
.1

locking or securing access points;

.2

using surveillance equipment to monitor the areas;

.3

using guards or patrols; and

.4

using automatic intrusion detection devices to alert the ship’s personnel of
unauthorized access.

Security Level 2
9.23 At security level 2, the frequency and intensity of the monitoring of, and control of access
to restricted areas should be increased to ensure that only authorized persons have access. The
SSP should establish the additional security measures to be applied, which may include:
.1

establishing restricted areas adjacent to access points;

.2

continuously monitoring surveillance equipment; and

.3

dedicating additional personnel to guard and patrol restricted areas.

Security Level 3
9.24 At security level 3, the ship should comply with the instructions issued by those
responding to the security incident or threat thereof. The SSP should detail the security measures
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which could be taken by the ship, in close co-operations with those responding and the port
facility, which may include:
.1

setting up of additional restricted areas on the ship in proximity to the security
incident, or the believed location of the security threat, to which access is denied;
and

.2

searching of restricted areas as part of a search of the ship.

Handling of cargo
9.25

The security measures relating to cargo handling should:
.1

prevent tampering; and

.2

prevent cargo that is not meant for carriage from being accepted and stored on
board the ship.

9.26 The security measures, some of which may have to be applied in liaison with the port
facility, should include inventory control procedures at access points to the ship. Once on board
the ship, cargo should be capable of being identified as having been approved for loading onto
the ship. In addition, security measures should be developed to ensure that cargo, once on board,
is not tampered with.
Security Level 1
9.27 At security level 1, the SSP should establish the security measures to be applied during
cargo handling, which may include:

9.28

.1

routine checking of cargo, cargo transport units and cargo spaces prior to, and
during, cargo handling operations;

.2

checks to ensure that cargo being loaded matches the cargo documentation;

.3

ensuring, in liaison with the port facility, that vehicles to be loaded on board carcarriers, ro-ro and passenger ships are subjected to search prior to loading, in
accordance with the frequency required in the SSP; and

.4

checking of seals or other methods used to prevent tampering.

Checking of cargo may be accomplished by the following means:
.1

visual and physical examination; and

.2

using scanning/detection equipment, mechanical devices, or dogs.

9.29 When there are regular, or repeated, cargo movement the CSO or SSO may, in
consultation with the port facility, agree arrangements with shippers or others responsible for
such cargo covering off-site checking, sealing, scheduling, supporting documentation, etc. Such
arrangements should be communicated to and agreed with the PFSO concerned.
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Security Level 2
9.30 At security level 2, the SSP should establish the additional security measures to be
applied during cargo handling, which may include:

9.31

.1

detailed checking of cargo, cargo transport units and cargo spaces;

.2

intensified checks to ensure that only the intended cargo is loaded;

.3

intensified searching of vehicles to be loaded on car-carriers, ro-ro and passenger
ships; and

.4

increased frequency and detail in checking of seals or other methods used to
prevent tampering.

Detailed checking of cargo may be accomplished by the following means:
.1

increasing the frequency and detail of visual and physical examination;

.2

increasing the frequency of the use of scanning/detection equipment, mechanical
devices, or dogs; and

.3

co-ordinating enhanced security measures with the shipper or other responsible
party in accordance with an established agreement and procedures.

Security Level 3
9.32 At security level 3, the ship should comply with the instructions issued by those
responding to the security incident or threat thereof. The SSP should detail the security measures
which could be taken by the ship, in close co-operation with those responding and the port
facility, which may include:
.1

suspension of the loading or unloading of cargo; and

.2

verify the inventory of dangerous goods and hazardous substances carried on
board, if any, and their location.

Delivery of ship’s stores
9.33

The security measures relating to the delivery of ship’s stores should:
.1

ensure checking of ship’s stores and package integrity;

.2

prevent ship’s stores from being accepted without inspection;

.3

prevent tampering; and

.4

prevent ship’s stores from being accepted unless ordered.

9.34 For ships regularly using the port facility it may be appropriate to establish procedures
involving the ship, its suppliers and the port facility covering notification and timing of deliveries
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and their documentation. There should always be some way of confirming that stores presented
for delivery are accompanied by evidence that they have been ordered by the ship.
Security Level 1
9.35 At security level 1, the SSP should establish the security measures to be applied during
delivery of ship’s stores, which may include:
.1

checking to ensure stores match the order prior to being loaded on board; and

.2

ensuring immediate secure stowage of ship’s stores.

Security Level 2
9.36 At security level 2, the SSP should establish the additional security measures to be
applied during delivery of ship’s stores by exercising checks prior to receiving stores on board
and intensifying inspections.
Security Level 3
9.37 At security level 3, the ship should comply with the instructions issued by those
responding to the security incident or threat thereof. The SSP should detail the security measures
which could be taken by the ship, in close co-operation with those responding and the port
facility, which may include:
.1

subjecting ship’s stores to more extensive checking;

.2

preparation for restriction or suspension of handling of ship’s stores; and

.3

refusal to accept ship’s stores on board the ship.

Handling unaccompanied baggage
9.38 The SSP should establish the security measures to be applied to ensure that
unaccompanied baggage (i.e. any baggage, including personal effects, which is not with the
passenger or member of ship’s personnel at the point of inspection or search) is identified and
subjected to appropriate screening, including searching, before it is accepted on board the ship. It
is not envisaged that such baggage will be subjected to screening by both the ship and the port
facility, and in cases where both are suitably equipped, the responsibility for screening should
rest with the port facility. Close co-operation with the port facility is essential and steps should
be taken to ensure that unaccompanied baggage is handled securely after screening.
Security Level 1
9.39 At security level 1, the SSP should establish the security measures to be applied when
handling unaccompanied baggage to ensure that unaccompanied baggage is screened or searched
up to and including 100 percent, which may include use of x-ray screening.

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Security Level 2
9.40 At security level 2, the SSP should establish the additional security measures to be
applied when handling unaccompanied baggage which should include 100 percent x-ray
screening of all unaccompanied baggage.
Security Level 3
9.41 At security level 3, the ship should comply with the instructions issued by those
responding to the security incident or threat thereof. The SSP should detail the security measures
which could be taken by the ship, in close co-operation with those responding and the port
facility, which may include:
.1

subjecting such baggage to more extensive screening, for example x-raying it
from at least two different angles;

.2

preparation for restriction or suspension of handling of unaccompanied baggage;
and

.3

refusal to accept unaccompanied baggage on board the ship.

Monitoring the Security of the Ship
9.42 The ship should have the capability to monitor the ship, the restricted areas on board and
areas surrounding the ship. Such monitoring capabilities may include use of:
.1

lighting;

.2

watch-keepers, security guards and deck watches including patrols; and

.3

automatic intrusion detection devices and surveillance equipment.

9.43 When used, automatic intrusion detection devices should activate an audible and/or visual
alarm at a location that is continuously attended or monitored.
9.44 The SSP should establish the procedures and equipment needed at each security level and
the means of ensuring that monitoring equipment will be able to perform continually, including
consideration of the possible effects of weather conditions or of power disruptions.
Security Level 1
9.45 At security level 1, the SSP should establish the security measures to be applied which
may be a combination of lighting, watch keepers, security guards or use of security and
surveillance equipment to allow ship’s security personnel to observe the ship in general, and
barriers and restricted areas in particular.
9.46 The ship's deck and access points to the ship should be illuminated during hours of
darkness and periods of low visibility while conducting ship/port interface activities or at a port
facility or anchorage when necessary. While underway, when necessary, ships should use the
maximum lighting available consistent with safe navigation, having regard to the provisions of
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the International Regulations for the Prevention of Collisions at Sea in force. The following
should be considered when establishing the appropriate level and location of lighting:
.1

the ship’s personnel should be able to detect activities beyond the ship, on both
the shore side and the waterside;

.2

coverage should include the area on and around the ship;

.3

coverage should facilitate personnel identification at access points; and

.4

coverage may be provided through coordination with the port facility.

Security Level 2
9.47 At security level 2, the SSP should establish the additional security measures to be
applied to enhance the monitoring and surveillance capabilities, which may include:
.1

increasing the frequency and detail of security patrols;

.2

increasing the coverage and intensity of lighting or the use of security and
surveillance and equipment;

.3

assigning additional personnel as security lookouts; and

.4

ensuring coordination with waterside boat patrols, and foot or vehicle patrols on
the shore-side, when provided.

9.48 Additional lighting may be necessary to protect against a heightened risk of a security
incidents. When necessary, the additional lighting requirements may be accomplished by
coordinating with the port facility to provide additional shore side lighting.
Security Level 3
9.49 At security level 3, the ship should comply with the instructions issued by those
responding to the security incident or threat thereof. The SSP should detail the security measures
which could be taken by the ship, in close co-operation with those responding and the port
facility, which may include:
.1

switching on of all lighting on, or illuminating the vicinity of, the ship;

.2

switching on of all on board surveillance equipment capable of recording
activities on, or in the vicinity of, the ship;

.3

maximising the length of time such surveillance equipment can continue to
record;

.4

preparation for underwater inspection of the hull of the ship; and

.5

initiation of measures, including the slow revolution of the ship’s propellers, if
practicable, to deter underwater access to the hull of the ship.

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Differing security levels
9.50 The SSP should establish details of the procedures and security measures the ship could
adopt if the ship is at a higher security level than that applying to a port facility.
Activities not covered by the Code
9.51 The SSP should establish details of the procedures and security measures the ship should
apply when:
.1

it is at a port of a State which is not a Contracting Government;

.2

it is interfacing with a ship to which this Code does not apply7;

.3

it is interfacing with fixed or floating platforms or a mobile drilling unit on
location; or

.4

it is interfacing with a port or port facility which is not required to comply with
chapter XI-2 and part A of this Code.

Declarations of security
9.52 The SSP should detail how requests for DoS from a port facility will be handled and the
circumstances under which the ship itself should request a DoS.
Audit and review
9.53 The SSP should establish how the CSO and the SSO intend to audit the continued
effectiveness of the SSP and the procedure to be followed to review, update or amend the SSP.
10

RECORDS

General
10.1 Records should be available to duly authorized officers of Contracting Governments to
verify that the provisions of ship security plans are being implemented.
10.2 Records may be kept in any format but should be protect from unauthorized access or
disclosure.
11

COMPANY SECURITY OFFICER
Relevant guidance is provided under sections 8, 9 and 13.

7

Refer to further work by the International Maritime Organization pertaining to Enhancement of maritime security
and to Establishment of appropriate measures to enhance the security of ships, port facilities, mobile offshore drilling
units on location and fixed and floating platforms not covered by chapter XI-2 of the 1974 SOLAS Convention,
adopted by the Conference on Maritime Security by resolutions 3 and 7 respectively.
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12

SHIP SECURITY OFFICER
Relevant guidance is provided under sections 8, 9 and 13.

13

TRAINING, DRILLS AND EXERCISES ON SHIP SECURITY

Training
13.1 The Company Security Officer (CSO) and appropriate shore based Company personnel,
and the Ship Security Officer (SSO), should have knowledge of, and receive training, in some or
all of the following, as appropriate:
.1

security administration;

.2

relevant international conventions, codes and recommendations;

.3

relevant Government legislation and regulations;

.4

responsibilities and functions of other security organizations;

.5

methodology of ship security assessment;

.6

methods of ship security surveys and inspections;

.7

ship and port operations and conditions;

.8

ship and port facility security measures;

.9

emergency preparedness and response and contingency planning;

.10

instruction techniques for security training and education, including security
measures and procedures;

.11

handling sensitive
communications;

.12

knowledge of current security threats and patterns;

.13

recognition and detection of weapons, dangerous substances and devices;

.14

recognition, on a non discriminatory basis, of characteristics and behavioural
patterns of persons who are likely to threaten security;

.15

techniques used to circumvent security measures;

.16

security equipment and systems and their operational limitations;

.17

methods of conducting audits, inspection, control and monitoring;

.18

methods of physical searches and non-intrusive inspections;

.19

security drills and exercises, including drills and exercises with port facilities; and

.20

assessment of security drills and exercises.

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security

related

information

and

security

related

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13.2 In addition the SSO should have adequate knowledge of, and receive training, in some or
all of the following, as appropriate:
.1

the layout of the ship;

.2

the ship security plan and related procedures (including scenario-based training on
how to respond);

.3

crowd management and control techniques;

.4

operations of security equipment and systems; and

.5

testing, calibration and whilst at sea maintenance of security equipment and
systems.

13.3 Shipboard personnel having specific security duties should have sufficient knowledge and
ability to perform their assigned duties, including, as appropriate:
.1

knowledge of current security threats and patterns;

.2

recognition and detection of weapons, dangerous substances and devices;

.3

recognition of characteristics and behavioural patterns of persons who are likely to
threaten security;

.4

techniques used to circumvent security measures;

.5

crowd management and control techniques;

.6

security related communications;

.7

knowledge of the emergency procedures and contingency plans;

.8

operations of security equipment and systems;

.9

testing, calibration and whilst at sea maintenance of security equipment and
systems;

.10

inspection, control, and monitoring techniques; and

.11

methods of physical searches of persons, personal effects, baggage, cargo, and
ship’s stores.

13.4 All other shipboard personnel should have sufficient knowledge of and be familiar with
relevant provisions of the SSP, including:
.1

the meaning and the consequential requirements of the different security levels;

.2

knowledge of the emergency procedures and contingency plans;

.3

recognition and detection of weapons, dangerous substances and devices;

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.4

recognition, on a non discriminatory basis, of characteristics and behavioural
patterns of persons who are likely to threaten security; and

.5

techniques used to circumvent security measures.

Drills and exercises
13.5 The objective of drills and exercises is to ensure that shipboard personnel are proficient in
all assigned security duties at all security levels and the identification of any security related
deficiencies, which need to be addressed.
13.6 To ensure the effective implementation of the provisions of the ship security plan, drills
should be conducted at least once every three months. In addition, in cases where more than
25 percent of the ship’s personnel has been changed, at any one time, with personnel that has not
previously participated in any drill on that ship, within the last 3 months, a drill should be
conducted within one week of the change. These drills should test individual elements of the
plan such as those security threats listed in paragraph 8.9.
13.7 Various types of exercises which may include participation of company security officers,
port facility security officers, relevant authorities of Contracting Governments as well as ship
security officers, if available, should be carried out at least once each calendar year with no more
than 18 months between the exercises. These exercises should test communications,
coordination, resource availability, and response. These exercises may be:
.1

full scale or live;

.2

tabletop simulation or seminar; or

.3

combined with other exercises held such as search and rescue or emergency
response exercises.

13.8 Company participation in an exercise with another Contracting Government should be
recognized by the Administration.
14

PORT FACILITY SECURITY
Relevant guidance is provided under section 15, 16 and 18.

15

PORT FACILITY SECURITY ASSESSMENT

General
15.1 The Port Facility Security Assessment (PFSA) may be conducted by a Recognized
Security Organization (RSO). However, approval of a completed PFSA should only be given by
the relevant Contracting Government.
15.2 If a Contracting Government uses a RSO, to review or verify compliance of the PFSA,
the RSO should not be associated with any other RSO that prepared or assisted in the preparation
of that assessment.

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15.3

15.4

A PFSA should address the following elements within a port facility:
.1

physical security;

.2

structural integrity;

.3

personnel protection systems;

.4

procedural policies;

.5

radio and telecommunication systems, including computer systems and networks;

.6

relevant transportation infrastructure;

.7

utilities; and

.8

other areas that may, if damaged or used for illicit observation, pose a risk to
persons, property, or operations within the port facility.

Those involved in a PFSA should be able to draw upon expert assistance in relation to:
.1

knowledge of current security threats and patterns;

.2

recognition and detection of weapons, dangerous substances and devices;

.3

recognition, on a non-discriminatory basis, of characteristics and behavioural
patterns of persons who are likely to threaten security;

.4

techniques used to circumvent security measures;

.5

methods used to cause a security incident;

.6

effects of explosives on structures and port facility services;

.7

port facility security;

.8

port business practices;

.9

contingency planning, emergency preparedness and response;

.10

physical security measures e.g. fences;

.11

radio and telecommunications systems, including computer systems and networks;

.12

transport and civil engineering; and

.13

ship and port operations.

Identification and evaluation of important assets and infrastructure it is important to
protect
15.5 The identification and evaluation of important assets and infrastructure is a process
through which the relative importance of structures and installations to the functioning of the port
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facility can be established. This identification and evaluation process is important because it
provides a basis for focusing mitigation strategies on those assets and structures which it is more
important to protect from a security incident. This process should take into account potential loss
of life, the economic significance of the port, symbolic value, and the presence of Government
installations.
15.6 Identification and evaluation of assets and infrastructure should be used to prioritise their
relative importance for protection. The primary concern should be avoidance of death or injury. It
is also important to consider whether the port facility, structure or installation can continue to
function without the asset, and the extent to which rapid re-establishment of normal functioning
is possible.
15.7

Assets and infrastructure that should be considered important to protect may include:
.1

accesses, entrances, approaches, and anchorages, manoeuvring and berthing areas;

.2

cargo facilities, terminals, storage areas, and cargo handling equipment;

.3

systems such as electrical distribution systems, radio and telecommunication
systems and computer systems and networks;

.4

port vessel traffic management systems and aids to navigation;

.5

power plants, cargo transfer piping, and water supplies;

.6

bridges, railways, roads;

.7

port service vessels, including pilot boats, tugs, lighters etc;

.8

security and surveillance equipment and systems; and

.9

the waters adjacent to the port facility.

15.8 The clear identification of assets and infrastructure is essential to the evaluation of the
port facility’s security requirements, the prioritisation of protective measures, and decisions
concerning the allocation of resources to better protect the port facility. The process may involve
consultation with the relevant authorities relating to structures adjacent to the port facility which
could cause damage within the facility or be used for the purpose of causing damage to the
facility or for illicit observation of the facility or for diverting attention.
Identification of the possible threats to the assets and infrastructure and the likelihood of
their occurrence, in order to establish and prioritise security measures
15.9 Possible acts that could threaten the security of assets and infrastructure, and the methods
of carrying out those acts, should be identified to evaluate the vulnerability of a given asset or
location to a security incident, and to establish and prioritise security requirements to enable
planning and resource allocations. Identification and evaluation of each potential act and its
method should be based on various factors, including threat assessments by Government
agencies. By identifying and assessing threats, those conducting the assessment do not have to
rely on worst-case scenarios to guide planning and resource allocations.

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15.10 The PFSA should include an assessment undertaken in consultation with the relevant
national security organizations to determine:
.1

any particular aspects of the port facility, including the vessel traffic using the
facility, which make it likely to be the target of an attack;

.2

the likely consequences in terms of loss of life, damage to property, economic
disruption, including disruption to transport systems, of an attack on, or at, the
port facility;

.3

the capability and intent of those likely to mount such an attack; and

.4

the possible type, or types, of attack,

producing an overall assessment of the level of risk against which security measures have to be
developed.
15.11 The PFSA should consider all possible threats, which may include the following types of
security incidents:
.1

damage to, or destruction of, the port facility or of the ship, e.g. by explosive
devices, arson, sabotage or vandalism;

.2

hijacking or seizure of the ship or of persons on board;

.3

tampering with cargo, essential ship equipment or systems or ship’s stores;

.4

unauthorized access or use including presence of stowaways;

.5

smuggling weapons or equipment, including weapons of mass destruction;

.6

use of the ship to carry those intending to cause a security incident and their
equipment;

.7

use of the ship itself as a weapon or as a means to cause damage or destruction;

.8

blockage; of port entrances, locks, approaches etc; and

.9

nuclear, biological and chemical attack.

15.12 The process should involve consultation with the relevant authorities relating to structures
adjacent to the port facility which could cause damage within the facility or be used for the
purpose of causing damage to the facility or for illicit observation of the facility or for diverting
attention.
Identification, selection, and prioritisation of countermeasures and procedural changes and
their level of effectiveness in reducing vulnerability
15.13 The identification and prioritisation of countermeasures is designed to ensure that the
most effective security measures are employed to reduce the vulnerability of a port facility or
ship/port interface to the possible threats.
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15.14 Security measures should be selected on the basis of factors such as whether they reduce
the probability of an attack and should be evaluated using information that includes:
.1

security surveys, inspections and audits;

.2

consultation with port facility owners and operators, and owners/operators of
adjacent structures if appropriate;

.3

historical information on security incidents; and

.4

operations within the port facility.

Identification of vulnerabilities
15.15 Identification of vulnerabilities in physical structures, personnel protection systems,
processes, or other areas that may lead to a security incident can be used to establish options to
eliminate or mitigate those vulnerabilities. For example, an analysis might reveal vulnerabilities
in a port facility’s security systems or unprotected infrastructure such as water supplies, bridges
etc that could be resolved through physical measures, e.g. permanent barriers, alarms,
surveillance equipment etc.
15.16 Identification of vulnerabilities should include consideration of:
.1

waterside and shore-side access to the port facility and ships berthing at the
facility;

.2

structural integrity of the piers, facilities, and associated structures;

.3

existing security measures and procedures, including identification systems;

.4

existing security measures and procedures relating to port services and utilities;

.5

measures to protect radio and telecommunication equipment, port services and
utilities, including computer systems and networks;

.6

adjacent areas that may be exploited during, or for, an attack;

.7

existing agreements with private security companies providing waterside/shoreside security services;

.8

any conflicting policies between safety and security measures and procedures;

.9

any conflicting port facility and security duty assignments;

.10

any enforcement and personnel constraints;

.11

any deficiencies identified during training and drills; and

.12

any deficiencies identified during daily operation, following incidents or alerts,
the report of security concerns, the exercise of control measures, audits etc.

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16

PORT FACILITY SECURITY PLAN

General
16.1 Preparation of the Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP) is the responsibility of the Port
Facility Security Officer (PFSO). While the PFSO need not necessarily personally undertake all
the duties associated with the post the ultimate responsibility for ensuring that they are properly
performed remains with the individual PFSO.
16.2 The content of each individual PFSP should vary depending on the particular
circumstances of the port facility, or facilities, it covers. The Port Facility Security (PFSA) will
have identified the particular features of the port facility, and of the potential security risks, that
have led to the need to appoint a PFSO and to prepare a PFSP. The preparation of the PFSP will
require these features, and other local or national security considerations, to be addressed in the
PFSP and for appropriate security measures to be established so as to minimise the likelihood of
a breach of security and the consequences of potential risks. Contracting Governments may
prepare advice on the preparation and content of a PFSP.
16.3

All PFSPs should:
.1

detail the security organization of the port facility,

.2

the organization’s links with other relevant authorities and the necessary
communication systems to allow the effective continuous operation of the
organization and its links with others, including ships in port;

.3

detail the basic security level 1 measures, both operational and physical, that will
be in place;

.4

detail the additional security measures that will allow the port facility to progress
without delay to security level 2 and, when necessary, to security level 3;

.5

provide for regular review, or audit, of the PFSP and for its amendments in
response to experience or changing circumstances; and

.6

reporting procedures to the appropriate Contracting Governments contact points.

16.4 Preparation of an effective PFSP will rest on a thorough assessment of all issues that
relate to the security of the port facility, including, in particular, a thorough appreciation of the
physical and operational characteristics of the individual port facility.
16.5 Contracting Government should approve the PFSPs of the port facilities under their
jurisdiction. Contracting Governments should develop procedures to assess the continuing
effectiveness of each PFSP and may require amendment of the PFSP prior to its initial approval
or subsequent to its approval. The PFSP should make provision for the retention of records of
security incidents and threats, reviews, audits, training, drills and exercises as evidence of
compliance with those requirements.
16.6 The security measures included in the PFSP should be in place within a reasonable period
of the PFSP’s approval and the PFSP should establish when each measure will be in place. If
there is likely to be any delay in their provision this should be discussed with the Contracting
Government responsible for approval of the PFSP and satisfactory alternative temporary security
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measures that provide an equivalent level of security should be agreed to cover any interim
period.
16.7
The use of firearms on or near ships and in port facilities may pose particular and
significant safety risks, in particular in connection with certain dangerous or hazardous
substances and should be considered very carefully. In the event that a Contracting Government
decides that it is necessary to use armed personnel in these areas, that Contracting Government
should ensure that these personnel are duly authorized and trained in the use of their weapons and
that they are aware of the specific risks to safety that are present in these areas. If a Contracting
Government authorizes the use of firearms they should issue specific safety guidelines on their
use. The PFSP should contain specific guidance on this matter in particular with regard its
application to ships carrying dangerous goods or hazardous substances.
Organization and performance of port facility security duties
16.8 In addition to the guidance given under section 16.3, the PFSP should establish the
following which relate to all security levels:
.1

the role and structure of the port facility security organization;

.2

the duties, responsibilities and training requirements of all port facility personnel
with a security role and the performance measures needed to allow their individual
effectiveness to be assessed;

.3

the port facility security organization’s links with other national or local
authorities with security responsibilities;

.4

the communication systems provided to allow effective and continuous
communication between port facility security personnel, ships in port and, when
appropriate, with national or local authorities with security responsibilities;

.5

the procedures or safeguards necessary to allow such continuous communications
to be maintained at all times;

.6

the procedures and practices to protect security sensitive information held in paper
or electronic format;

.7

the procedures to assess the continuing effectiveness of security measures,
procedures and equipment, including identification of, and response to, equipment
failure or malfunction;

.8

the procedures to allow the submission, and assessment, of reports relating to
possible breaches of security or security concerns;

.9

procedures relating to cargo handling;

.10

procedures covering the delivery of ship’s stores;

.11

the procedures to maintain, and update, records of dangerous goods and hazardous
substances and their location within the port facility;

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.12

the means of alerting and obtaining the services of waterside patrols and specialist
search teams, including bomb searches and underwater searches;

.13

the procedures for assisting ship security officers in confirming the identity of
those seeking to board the ship when requested; and

.14

the procedures for facilitating shore leave for ship’s personnel or personnel
changes, as well as access of visitors to the ship including representatives of
seafarers’ welfare and labour organizations.

16.9 The remainder of this section addresses specifically the security measures that could be
taken at each security level covering:
.1

access to the port facility;

.2

restricted areas within the port facility;

.3

handling of cargo;

.4

delivery of ship’s stores;

.5

handling unaccompanied baggage; and

.6

monitoring the security of the port facility.

Access to the port facility
16.10 The PFSP should establish the security measures covering all means of access to the port
facility identified in the PFSA.
16.11 For each of these the PFSP should identify the appropriate locations where access
restrictions or prohibitions should be applied for each of the security levels. For each security
level the PFSP should specify the type of restriction or prohibition to be applied and the means of
enforcing them.
16.12 The PFSP should establish for each security level the means of identification required to
allow access to the port facility and for individuals to remain within the port facility without
challenge, this may involve developing an appropriate identification system allowing for
permanent and temporary identifications, for port facility personnel and for visitors respectively.
Any port facility identification system should, when it is practicable to do so, be co-ordinated
with that applying to ships that regularly use the port facility. Passengers should be able to prove
their identity by boarding passes, tickets, etc., but should not be permitted access to restricted
areas unless supervised. The PFSP should establish provisions to ensure that the identification
systems are regularly updated, and that abuse of procedures should be subject to disciplinary
action.
16.13 Those unwilling or unable to establish their identity and/or to confirm the purpose of their
visit when requested to do so should be denied access to the port facility and their attempt to
obtain access should be reported to the PFSO and to the national or local authorities with security
responsibilities.

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16.14 The PFSP should identify the locations where persons, personal effects, and vehicle
searches are to be undertaken. Such locations should be covered to facilitate continuous
operation regardless of prevailing weather conditions, in accordance with the frequency laid
down in the PFSP. Once subjected to search persons, personal effects and vehicles should
proceed directly to the restricted holding, embarkation or car loading areas.
16.15 The PFSP should establish separate locations for checked and unchecked persons and
their effects and if possible separate areas for embarking/disembarking passengers, ship’s
personnel and their effects to ensure that unchecked persons are not able to come in contact with
checked persons.
16.16 The PFSP should establish the frequency of application of any access controls particularly
if they are to be applied on a random, or occasional, basis.
Security Level 1
16.17 At security level 1, the PFSP should establish the control points where the following
security measures may be applied:
.1

restricted areas which should be bound by fencing or other barriers to a standard
which should be approved by the Contracting Government;

.2

checking identity of all persons seeking entry to the port facility in connection
with a ship, including passengers, ship’s personnel and visitors and confirming
their reasons for doing so by checking, for example, joining instructions,
passenger tickets, boarding passes, work orders, etc;

.3

checking vehicles used by those seeking entry to the port facility in connection
with a ship;

.4

verification of the identity of port facility personnel and those employed within
the port facility and their vehicles;

.5

restricting access to exclude those not employed by the port facility or working
within it, if they are unable to establish their identity;

.6

undertaking searches of persons, personal effects, vehicles and their contents; and

.7

identification of any access points not in regular use which should be permanently
closed and locked.

16.18 At security level 1, all those seeking access to the port facility should be liable to search.
The frequency of such searches, including random searches, should be specified in the approved
PFSP and should be specifically approved by the Contracting Government. Unless there are
clear security grounds for doing so, members of the ship’s personnel should not be required to
search their colleagues or their personal effects. Any such search shall be undertaken in a
manner which fully takes into account the human rights of the individual and preserves their
basic human dignity.

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Security Level 2
16.19 At security level 2, the PFSP should establish the additional security measures to be
applied, which may include:
.1

assigning additional personnel to guard access points and patrol perimeter
barriers;

.2

limiting the number of access points to the port facility, and identify those to be
closed and the means of adequately securing them;

.3

providing for means of impeding movement through the remaining access points,
e.g. security barriers;

.4

increasing the frequency of searches of persons, personal effects, and vehicle;

.5

deny access to visitors who are unable to provide a verifiable justification for
seeking access to the port facility; and

.6

using of patrol vessels to enhance waterside security.

Security Level 3
16.20 At security level 3, the port facility should comply with instructions issued by those
responding to the security incident or threat thereof. The PFSP should detail the security
measures which could be taken by the port facility, in close co-operation with those responding
and the ships at the port facility, which may include:
.1

suspension of access to all, or part of, the port facility;

.2

granting access only to those responding to the security incident or threat thereof;

.3

suspension of pedestrian or vehicular movement within all, or part, of the port
facility;

.4

increased security patrols within the port facility, if appropriate;

.5

suspension of port operations within all, or part, of the port facility;

.6

direction of vessel movements relating to all, or part, of the port facility; and

.7

evacuation of all, or part of, the port facility.

Restricted areas within the port facility
16.21 The PFSP should identify the restricted areas to be established within the port facility,
specify their extent, times of application, the security measures to be taken to control access to
them and those to be taken to control activities within them. This should also include, in
appropriate circumstances, measures to ensure that temporary restricted areas are security swept
both before and after that area is established. The purpose of restricted areas is to:

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.1

protect passengers, ship’s personnel, port facility personnel and visitors, including
those visiting in connection with a ship;

.2

protect the port facility;

.3

protect ships using, and serving, the port facility;

.4

protect sensitive security locations and areas within the port facility;

.5

to protect security and surveillance equipment and systems; and

.6

protect cargo and ship’s stores from tampering.

16.22 The PFSP should ensure that all restricted areas have clearly established security
measures to control:
.1

access by individuals;

.2

the entry, parking, loading and unloading of vehicles;

.3

movement and storage of cargo and ship’s stores; and

.4

unaccompanied baggage or personal effects.

16.23 The PFSP should provide that all restricted areas should be clearly marked indicating that
access to the area is restricted and that unauthorized presence within the area constitutes a breach
of security.
16.24 When automatic intrusion detection devices are installed they should alert a control centre
which can respond to the triggering of an alarm.
16.25 Restricted areas may include:
.1

shore and waterside areas immediately adjacent to the ship;

.2

embarkation and disembarkation areas, passenger and ship’s personnel holding
and processing areas including search points;

.3

areas where loading, unloading or storage of cargo and stores is undertaken;

.4

locations where security sensitive information, including cargo documentation, is
held;

.5

areas where dangerous goods and hazardous substances are held;

.6

vessel traffic management system control rooms, aids to navigation and port
control buildings, including security and surveillance control rooms;

.7

areas where security and surveillance equipment are stored or located;

.8

essential electrical, radio and telecommunication, water and other utility
installations; and

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.9

other locations in the port facility where access by vessels, vehicles and
individuals should be restricted.

16.26 The security measures may extend, with the agreement of the relevant authorities, to
restrictions on unauthorized access to structures from which the port facility can be observed.
Security Level 1
16.27 At security level 1, the PFSP should establish the security measures to be applied to
restricted areas, which may include:
.1

provision of permanent or temporary barriers to surround the restricted area whose
standard should be accepted by the Contracting Government;

.2

provision of access points where access can be controlled by security guards when
in operation and which can be effectively locked or barred when not in use;

.3

providing passes which must be displayed to identify individuals entitlement to be
within the restricted area;

.4

clearly marking vehicles allowed access to restricted areas;

.5

providing guards and patrols;

.6

providing automatic intrusion detection devices, or surveillance equipment or
systems to detect unauthorized access into, or movement within restricted areas;
and

.7

control of the movement of vessels in the vicinity of ships using the port facility.

Security Level 2
16.28 At security level 2, the PFSP should establish the enhancement of the frequency and
intensity of the monitoring of, and control of access to, restricted areas. The PFSP should
establish the additional security measures, which may include:
.1

enhancing the effectiveness of the barriers or fencing surrounding restricted areas,
including the use of patrols or automatic intrusion detection devices;

.2

reducing the number of access points to restricted areas and enhancing the
controls applied at the remaining accesses;

.3

restrictions on parking adjacent to berthed ships;

.4

further restricting access to the restricted areas and movements and storage within
them;

.5

use of continuously monitored and recording surveillance equipment;

.6

enhancing the number and frequency of patrols including waterside patrols
undertaken on the boundaries of the restricted areas and within the areas;

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.7

establishing and restricting access to areas adjacent to the restricted areas; and

.8

enforcing restrictions on access by unauthorized craft to the waters adjacent to
ships using the port facility.

Security Level 3
16.29 At security level 3, the port facility should comply with the instructions issued by those
responding to the security incident or threat thereof. The PFSP should detail the security
measures which could be taken by the port facility, in close co-operation with those responding
and the ships at the port facility, which may include:
.1

setting up of additional restricted areas within the port facility in proximity to the
security incident, or the believed location of the security threat, to which access is
denied; and

.2

preparing for the searching of restricted areas as part of a search of all, or part, of
the port facility.

Handling of cargo
16.30 The security measures relating to cargo handling should:
.1

prevent tampering; and

.2

prevent cargo that is not meant for carriage from being accepted and stored within
the port facility.

16.31 The security measures should include inventory control procedures at access points to the
port facility. Once within the port facility cargo should be capable of being identified as having
been checked and accepted for loading onto a ship or for temporary storage in a restricted area
while awaiting loading. It may be appropriate to restrict the entry of cargo to the port facility that
does not have a confirmed date for loading.
Security Level 1
16.32 At security level 1, the PFSP should establish the security measures to be applied during
cargo handling, which may include:
.1

routine checking of cargo, cargo transport units and cargo storage areas within the
port facility prior to, and during, cargo handling operations;

.2

checks to ensure that cargo entering the port facility matches the delivery note or
equivalent cargo documentation;

.3

searches of vehicles; and

.4

checking of seals and other methods used to prevent tampering upon entering the
port facility and upon storage within the port facility.

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16.33 Checking of cargo may be accomplished by some or all of the following means:
.1

visual and physical examination; and

.2

using scanning/detection equipment, mechanical devices, or dogs.

16.34 When there are regular, or repeated, cargo movement the Company Security Officer
(CSO) or the Ship Security Officer (SSO) may, in consultation with the port facility, agree
arrangements with shippers or others responsible for such cargo covering off-site checking,
sealing, scheduling, supporting documentation, etc. Such arrangements should be communicated
to and agreed with the PFSO concerned.
Security Level 2
16.35 At security level 2, the PFSP should establish the additional security measures to be
applied during cargo handling to enhance control, which may include:
.1

detailed checking of cargo, cargo transport units and cargo storage areas within
the port facility;

.2

intensified checks, as appropriate, to ensure that only the documented cargo enters
the port facility, is temporarily stored there and then loaded onto the ship;

.3

intensified searches of vehicles; and

.4

increased frequency and detail in checking of seals and other methods used to
prevent tampering.

16.36 Detailed checking of cargo may be accomplished by some or all of the following means:
.1

increasing the frequency and detail of checking of cargo, cargo transport units and
cargo storage areas within the port facility (visual and physical examination);

.2

increasing the frequency of the use of scanning/detection equipment, mechanical
devices, or dogs; and

.3

co-ordinating enhanced security measures with the shipper or other responsible
party in addition to an established agreement and procedures.

Security Level 3
16.37 At security level 3, the port facility should comply with the instructions issued by those
responding to the security incident or threat thereof. The PFSP should detail the security
measures which could be taken by the port facility, in close co-operation with those responding
and the ships at the port facility, which may include:
.1

restriction or suspension of cargo movements or operations within all, or part, of
the port facility or specific ships; and

.2

verifying the inventory of dangerous goods and hazardous substances held within
the port facility and their location.

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Delivery of ship’s stores
16.38 The security measures relating to the delivery of ship’s stores should:
.1

ensure checking of ship’s stores and package integrity;

.2

prevent ship’s stores from being accepted without inspection;

.3

prevent tampering;

.4

prevent ship’s stores from being accepted unless ordered;

.5

ensure searching the delivery vehicle; and

.6

ensure escorting delivery vehicles within the port facility.

16.39 For ships regularly using the port facility it may be appropriate to establish procedures
involving the ship, its suppliers and the port facility covering notification and timing of deliveries
and their documentation. There should always be some way of confirming that stores presented
for delivery are accompanied by evidence that they have been ordered by the ship.
Security Level 1
16.40 At security level 1, the PFSP should establish the security measures to be applied to
control the delivery of ship’s stores, which may include:
.1

checking of ship’s stores;

.2

advance notification as to composition of load, driver details and vehicle
registration; and

.3

searching the delivery vehicle.

16.41 Checking of ship’s stores may be accomplished by some or all of the following means:
.1

visual and physical examination; and

.2

using scanning/detection equipment, mechanical devices or dogs.

Security Level 2
16.42 At security level 2, the PFSP should establish the additional security measures to be
applied to enhance the control of the delivery of ship’s stores, which may include:
.1

detailed checking of ship’s stores;

.2

detailed searches of the delivery vehicles;

.3

co-ordination with ship personnel to check the order against the delivery note
prior to entry to the port facility; and

.4

escorting the delivery vehicle within the port facility.

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16.43 Detailed checking of ship’s stores may be accomplished by some or all of the following
means:
.1

increasing the frequency and detail of searches of delivery vehicles;

.2

increasing the use of scanning/detection equipment, mechanical devices, or dogs;
and

.3

restricting, or prohibiting, entry of stores that will not leave the port facility within
a specified period.

Security Level 3
16.44 At security level 3, the port facility should comply with the instructions issued by those
responding to the security incident or threat thereof. The PFSP should detail the security
measures which could be taken by the port facility, in close co-operation with those responding
and the ships at the port facility which may include preparation for restriction, or suspension, of
the delivery of ship’s stores within all, or part, of the port facility.
Handling unaccompanied baggage
16.45 The PFSP should establish the security measures to be applied to ensure that
unaccompanied baggage (i.e. any baggage, including personal effects, which is not with the
passenger or member of ship’s personnel at the point of inspection or search) is identified and
subjected to appropriate screening, including searching, before is allowed in the port facility and,
depending on the storage arrangements, before it is transferred between the port facility and the
ship. It is not envisaged that such baggage will be subjected to screening by both the port facility
and the ship, and in cases where both are suitably equipped, the responsibility for screening
should rest with the port facility. Close co-operation with the ship is essential and steps should
be taken to ensure that unaccompanied baggage is handled securely after screening.
Security Level 1
16.46 At security level 1, the PFSP should establish the security measures to be applied when
handling unaccompanied baggage to ensure that unaccompanied baggage is screened or searched
up to and including 100 percent, which may include use of x-ray screening.
Security Level 2
16.47 At security level 2, the PFSP should establish the additional security measures to be
applied when handling unaccompanied baggage which should include 100 percent x-ray
screening of all unaccompanied baggage.
Security Level 3
16.48 At security level 3, the port facility should comply with the instructions issued by those
responding to the security incident or threat thereof. The PFSP should detail the security
measures which could be taken by the port facility, in close co-operation with those responding
and the ships at the port facility, which may include:
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.1

subjecting such baggage to more extensive screening, for example x-raying it
from at least two different angles;

.2

preparations for restriction or suspension of handling or unaccompanied baggage;
and

.3

refusal to accept unaccompanied baggage into the port facility.

Monitoring the security of the port facility
16.49 The port facility security organization should have the capability to monitor the port
facility and its nearby approaches, on land and water, at all times, including the night hours and
periods of limited visibility, the restricted areas within the port facility, the ships at the port
facility and areas surrounding ships. Such monitoring can include use of:
.1

lighting;

.2

security guards, including foot, vehicle and waterborne patrols; and

.3

automatic intrusion detection devices and surveillance equipment.

16.50 When used, automatic intrusion detection devices should activate an audible and/or visual
alarm at a location that is continuously attended or monitored.
16.51 The PFSP should establish the procedures and equipment needed at each security level
and the means of ensuring that monitoring equipment will be able to perform continually,
including consideration of the possible effects of weather or of power disruptions.
Security Level 1
16.52 At security level 1, the PFSP should establish the security measures to be applied which
may be a combination of lighting, security guards or use of security and surveillance equipment
to allow port facility security personnel to:
.1

observe the general port facility area, including shore and water-side accesses
to it;

.2

observe access points, barriers and restricted areas; and

.3

allow port facility security personnel to monitor areas and movements adjacent to
ships using the port facility, including augmentation of lighting provided by the
ship itself.

Security Level 2
16.53 At security level 2, the PFSP should establish the additional security measures to be
applied to enhance the monitoring and surveillance capability, which may include:
.1

increasing the coverage and intensity of lighting and surveillance equipment,
including the provision of additional lighting and surveillance coverage;

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.2

increasing the frequency of foot, vehicle or waterborne patrols; and

.3

assigning additional security personnel to monitor and patrol.

Security Level 3
16.54 At security level 3, the port facility should comply with the instructions issued by those
responding to the security incident or threat thereof. The PFSP should detail the security
measures which could be taken by the port facility, in close co-operation with those responding
and the ships at the port facility, which may include:
.1

switching on all lighting within, or illuminating the vicinity of, the port facility;

.2

switching on all surveillance equipment capable of recording activities within, or
adjacent to, the port facility; and

.3

maximising the length of time such surveillance equipment can continue to record.

Differing security levels
16.55 The PFSP should establish details of the procedures and security measures the port
facility could adopt if the port facility is at a lower security level than that applying to a ship.
Activities not covered by the Code
16.56 The PFSP should establish details of the procedures and security measures the port
facility should apply when:
.1

it is interfacing with a ship which has been at a port of a State which not a
Contracting Government;

.2

it is interfacing with a ship to which this Code does not apply; and

.3

it is interfacing with fixed or floating platforms or mobile offshore drilling units
on location.

Declarations of security
16.57 The PFSP should establish the procedures to be followed when on the instructions of the
Contracting Government the PFSO requests a Declaration of Security or when a DoS is requested
by a ship.
Audit, review and amendment
16.58 The PFSP should establish how the PFSO intends to audit the continued effectiveness of
the PFSP and the procedure to be followed to review, update or amend the PFSP.
16.59 The PFSP should be reviewed at the discretion of the PFSO. In addition it should be
reviewed:
.1

if the PFSA relating to the port facility is altered;

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.2

if an independent audit of the PFSP or the Contracting Government’s testing of
the port facility security organization identifies failings in the organization or
questions the continuing relevance of significant element of the approved PFSP;

.3

following security incidents or threats thereof involving the port facility; and

.4

following changes in ownership or operational control of the port facility.

16.60 The PFSO can recommend appropriate amendments to the approved plan following any
review of the plan. Amendments to the PFSP relating to:
.1

proposed changes which could fundamentally alter the approach adopted to
maintaining the security of the port facility; and

.2

the removal, alteration or replacement of permanent barriers, security and
surveillance equipment and systems etc., previously considered essential in
maintaining the security of the port facility;

should be submitted to the Contracting Government that approved the original PFSP for their
consideration and approval. Such approval can be given by, or on behalf of, the Contracting
Government with, or without, amendments to the proposed changes. On approval of the PFSP
the Contracting Government should indicate which procedural or physical alterations have to be
submitted to it for approval.
Approval of port facility security plans
16.61 PFSPs have to be approved by the relevant Contracting Government which should
establish appropriate procedures to provide for:
.1

the submission of PFSPs to them;

.2

the consideration of PFSPs;

.3

the approval of PFSPs, with or without amendments;

.4

consideration of amendments submitted after approval; and

.5

procedures for inspecting or auditing the continuing relevance of the approved
PFSP.

At all stages steps should be taken to ensure that the contents of the PFSP remains confidential.
Statement of Compliance of a Port Facility
16.62 The Contracting Government within whose territory a port facility is located may issue an
appropriate Statement of Compliance of a Port Facility (SoCPF) indicating:
.1

the port facility;

.2

that the port facility complies with the provisions of chapter XI-2 and part A of
the Code;

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.3

the period of validity of the SoCPF which should be specified by the Contracting
Governments but should not exceed five years; and

.4

the subsequent verification arrangements established by the Contracting
Government and a confirmation when these are carried out.

16.63 The Statement of Compliance of a Port Facility should be in the form set out in the
appendix to this Part of the Code. If the language used is not Spanish, French or English, the
Contracting Government, if it considers it appropriate, may also include a translation into one of
these languages.
17

PORT FACILITY SECURITY OFFICER

General
17.1 In those exceptional instances where the ship security officer has questions about the
validity of identification documents of those seeking to board the ship for official purposes, the
port facility security officer should assist.
17.2 The port facility security officer should not be responsible for routine confirmation of the
identity of those seeking to board the ship.
In addition other relevant guidance is provided under sections 15, 16 and 18.
18

TRAINING, DRILLS AND EXERCISES ON PORT FACILITY SECURITY

Training
18.1 The Port Facility Security Officer should have knowledge and receive training, in some or
all of the following, as appropriate:
.1

security administration;

.2

relevant international conventions, codes and recommendations;

.3

relevant Government legislation and regulations;

.4

responsibilities and functions of other security organizations;

.5

methodology of port facility security assessment;

.6

methods of ship and port facility security surveys and inspections;

.7

ship and port operations and conditions;

.8

ship and port facility security measures;

.9

emergency preparedness and response and contingency planning;

.10

instruction techniques for security training and education, including security
measures and procedures;

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.11

handling sensitive
communications;

security

related

information

and

security

related

.12

knowledge of current security threats and patterns;

.13

recognition and detection of weapons, dangerous substances and devices;

.14

recognition, on a non discriminatory basis, of characteristics and behavioural
patterns of persons who are likely to threaten the security;

.15

techniques used to circumvent security measures;

.16

security equipment and systems, and their operational limitations;

.17

methods of conducting audits, inspection, control and monitoring;

.18

methods of physical searches and non-intrusive inspections;

.19

security drills and exercises, including drills and exercises with ships; and

.20

assessment of security drills and exercises.

18.2 Port facility personnel having specific security duties should have knowledge and receive
training, in some or all of the following, as appropriate:
.1

knowledge of current security threats and patterns;

.2

recognition and detection of weapons, dangerous substances and devices;

.3

recognition of characteristics and behavioural patterns of persons who are likely to
threaten security;

.4

techniques used to circumvent security measures;

.5

crowd management and control techniques;

.6

security related communications;

.7

operations of security equipment and systems;

.8

testing, calibration and maintenance of security equipment and systems;

.9

inspection, control, and monitoring techniques; and

.10

methods of physical searches of persons, personal effects, baggage, cargo, and
ship’s stores.

18.3 All other port facility personnel should have knowledge of and be familiar with relevant
provisions of the PFSP, in some or all of the following, as appropriate:
.1

the meaning and the consequential requirements of the different security levels;

.2

recognition and detection of weapons, dangerous substances and devices;

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.3

recognition of characteristics and behavioural patterns of persons who are likely to
threaten the security; and

.4

techniques used to circumvent security measures.

Drills and exercises
18.4 The objective of drills and exercises is to ensure that port facility personnel are proficient
in all assigned security duties, at all security levels, and to identify any security related
deficiencies, which need to be addressed.
18.5 To ensure the effective implementation of the provisions of the port facility security plan,
drills should be conducted at least every three months unless the specific circumstances dictate
otherwise. These drills should test individual elements of the plan such as those security threats
listed in paragraph 15.11.
18.6 Various types of exercises which may include participation of port facility security
officers, in conjunction with relevant authorities of Contracting Governments, company security
officers, or ship security officers, if available, should be carried out at least once each calendar
year with no more than 18 months between the exercises. Requests for the participation of
company security officers or ships security officers in joint exercises should be made bearing in
mind the security and work implications for the ship. These exercises should test communication,
coordination, resource availability and response. These exercises may be:

19

.1

full scale or live;

.2

tabletop simulation or seminar; or

.3

combined with other exercises held such as emergency response or other port
State authority exercises.

VERIFICATION AND CERTIFICATION OF SHIPS
No additional guidance.

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SOLAS/CONF.5/34
ANNEX 1
Page 88
APPENDIX TO PART B
APPENDIX 1
Form of a Declaration of Security between a ship and a port facility8
DECLARATION OF SECURITY
Name of Ship:
Port of Registry:
IMO Number:
Name of Port Facility:
This Declaration of Security is valid from ……………….. until
following activities
…………………………………………..

………………, for the

(list the activities with relevant details)
under the following security levels
Security level(s) for the ship:
Security level(s) for the port facility:

The port facility and ship agree to the following security measures and responsibilities to ensure
compliance with the requirements of Part A of the International Code for the Security of Ships
and of Port Facilities.
The affixing of the initials of the SSO or PFSO under
these columns indicates that the activity will be done,
in accordance with relevant approved plan, by
Activity

The port facility:

The ship:

Ensuring the performance of all security duties
Monitoring restricted areas to ensure that only
authorized personnel have access
Controlling access to the port facility
Controlling access to the ship
Monitoring of the port facility, including
berthing areas and areas surrounding the ship
Monitoring of the ship, including berthing
areas and areas surrounding the ship
Handling of cargo
Delivery of ship’s stores
8

This form of Declaration of Security is for use between a ship and a port facility. If the Declaration of Security is to
cover two ships this model should be appropriately modified.
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SOLAS/CONF.5/34
ANNEX 1
Page 89
Handling unaccompanied baggage
Controlling the embarkation of persons and
their effects
Ensuring that security communication is
readily available between the ship and port
facility

The signatories to this agreement certify that security measures and arrangements for both the
port facility and the ship during the specified activities meet the provisions of chapter XI-2 and
Part A of Code that will be implemented in accordance with the provisions already stipulated in
their approved plan or the specific arrangements agreed to and set out in the attached annex.
Dated at …………………………………….…….on the ……………………………………
Signed for and on behalf of
the port facility:

the ship:

(Signature of Port Facility Security Officer)

(Signature of Master or Ship Security Officer)

Name and title of person who signed
Name:

Name:

Title :

Title :
Contact Details
(to be completed as appropriate)
(indicate the telephone numbers or the radio channels or frequencies to be used)

for the port facility:

for the ship:

Port Facility

Master

Port Facility Security Officer

Ship Security Officer
Company
Company Security Officer

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SOLAS/CONF.5/34
ANNEX 1
Page 90
APPENDIX 2
Form of a Statement of Compliance of a Port Facility
STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE OF A PORT FACILITY
(Official seal)

(State)

Statement Number
Issued under the provisions of Part B of the
INTERNATIONAL CODE FOR THE SECURITY OF SHIPS AND OF PORT
FACILITIES (ISPS CODE)
The Government of____________________________________________
(name of the State)
Name of the Port Facility
:
Address of the Port Facility :

…………………………………...
……………………………………

THIS IS TO CERTIFY that the compliance of this port facility with the provisions of
chapter XI-2 and part A of the International Code for the Security of Ships and of Port Facilities
(ISPS Code) has been verified and that this port facility operates in accordance with the approved
Port Facility Security Plan. This plan has been approved for the following  (delete as appropriate):
Passenger ship
Passenger high speed craft
Cargo high speed craft
Bulk carrier
Oil tanker
Chemical tanker
Gas carrier
Mobile offshore Drilling Units
Cargo ships other than those referred to above
This Statement of Compliance is valid until ................................................................, subject to
verifications (as indicated overleaf)
Issued at.......................................
(place of issue of the statement)
Date of issue................

........................................................................................

.................................................................................
(Signature of the duly authorized official
issuing the document)

(Seal or stamp of issuing authority, as appropriate)

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SOLAS/CONF.5/34
ANNEX 1
Page 91
ENDORSEMENT FOR VERIFICATIONS
The Government of  has established that the validity of this Statement
of Compliance is subject to .
THIS IS TO CERTIFY that, during a verification carried out in accordance with paragraph
B/16.62.4 of the ISPS Code, the port facility was found to comply with the relevant provisions of
chapter XI-2 of the Convention and Part A of the ISPS Code.
1st VERIFICATION
Signed: .............................................…………….......
(Signature of authorized official)
Place: .....................................…………...................
Date:
......................……………...........................
2nd VERIFICATION
Signed: .............................................…………….......
(Signature of authorized official)
Place: .....................................…………...................
Date:
......................……………...........................
3rd VERIFICATION
Signed: .............................................…………….......
(Signature of authorized official)
Place: .....................................…………...................
Date:
......................……………...........................
4th VERIFICATION
Signed: .............................................…………….......
(Signature of authorized official)
Place: .....................................…………...................
Date:
......................……………...........................
***

I:\CONF\SOLAS\5\34.DOC


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File TitleMicrosoft Word - 34.doc
AuthorHBELL
File Modified2003-03-19
File Created2003-03-19

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