SOLAS Chapter XI-2 and ISPS Code
 
What is it?
The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code was adopted by IMO in December of 2002, and included in Chapter XI-2 of the Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS). The ISPS Code is a comprehensive mandatory security regime for international shipping and port operations.
 
When is it effective?
The ISPS Code requires compliance by 1 July 2004. Compliance for ships is confirmed by the issuance of an International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC).
 
Who has to comply?
The ISPS Code applies to the following ships and port facilities engaged in international trade:
  • Passenger Ships, including high-speed craft
  • Cargo ships, including high-speed craft, of 500 gross tonnage and upwards
  • Mobile offshore drilling units
  • Port facilities serving ships engaged on international voyages
What are the minimum requirements?
For ships, the requirements include:
  • Conducting a Security Assessment for each ship
  • Developing a Security Plan for each ship
  • Submitting the Security Plan to the Flag State for approval
  • Appointing Company and Ship Security Officers
  • Certain onboard security equipment
  • Training of appropriate personnel
For port facilities, the requirements include:
  • Conducting a Security Assessment for each port facility
  • Developing a Security Plan for each port facility
  • Submitting the Security Plan to the Contracting Government who has jurisdiction over the port
  • Appointing Facility Security Officers\
  • Certain security equipment on site
  • Training of appropriate personnel
In addition, both ships and port facilities are required to:
  • Monitor and control access to the ship
  • Monitor the activities of people and cargo around the terminal on the ship
  • Maintain readily available security communications.
What are Security Levels and who sets them?
Contracting Governments are responsible for setting security levels and providing guidance for protection from security incidents. The security levels are:
  • Security Level 1 requires that minimum appropriate protective security measures shall be maintained at all times.
  • Security Level 2 requires that appropriate additional protective security measures shall be maintained for a period of time as a result of a heightened risk of a security incident.
  • Security Level 3 requires that specific further protective security measures be maintained for a limited period of time when a security incident is probable or imminent.