What Is ISPS Code? Key Roles, Rules & Tech Impact

ISPS code (short for International Ship and Port Facility Security) is a set of measures devised to strengthen the security system of the port facilities and ships. This special code outlines the roles and responsibilities of all those responsible for maritime security. Compliance with the code is necessary to ensure safety. There are several key components of this code, including Ship Security Plans (SSPs), Ship Security Officers (SSO), Port Facility Security Officers (PFSO) and Ship Security Alert Systems (SSAS), to name a few. 

In this article, you shall learn about the various components of the ISPS code, the role of technology in ISPS compliance and its implications for sellers.

What is the ISPS Code?

ISPS code, initiated to ensure the safety and security of ships and ports, offers a uniform framework for risk assessment. In addition, it gives a standard methodology to create security plans for the vessels and ports. The International Maritime Organisation developed this code to prevent potential threats to maritime security. The decision was taken after the infamous 9/11 attack, and it came into effect on July 1, 2004. However, a Conference on Maritime Security adopted the code in December 2002. This code is a part of the Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS). Its compliance is deemed necessary for the 148 Contracting Parties of SOLAS.

The International Ship and Port Facility Security Code applies to all passenger ships involved in international trade, regardless of size. It is also applicable to cargo ships with a gross tonnage of 500 and above and mobile offshore drilling units. The port facilities that serve the above-mentioned ships are also required to follow this strict security code.

The international security code encourages effective and timely communication among the security personnel on ships and at port facilities. Exchanging maritime security information is viewed as an essential part of maintaining security. With clear communication between the security staff, timely action can be taken to avert potential risks. The main aim of the ISPS code is to identify potential threats, implement strict security measures and create plans to deal with the changing security levels.

Key Components of the ISPS Code

Here is a look at the key components of the international security code:

1. Ship Security Plans (SSPs)

These provide standard security measures that ships must follow to ensure the safety of the passengers and cargo on board. Risk assessment forms an essential part of these plans. The way the security personnel must respond to potential threats has also been outlined in detail to help take prompt action. Some of the other things covered under these plans are:

• Access control
• Communication protocols
• Training
• Handling of cargo

 This approach works because it facilitates better coordination among security personnel and other staff members during crises, enabling efficient handling.

2. Ship Security Officer (SSO)

The Ship Security Officers (SSO) are responsible for maintaining security on the ship by implementing strict safety measures. They undergo rigorous training in maritime security. They carry out the following activities:

• Extensive security assessments
• Drills
• Equipment monitoring
• Training 

For the successful implementation of safety measures, Ship Security Officers must coordinate with the crew members and authorities. They also must keep the stakeholders in the loop to ensure compliance with the international security code.

3. Ship Security Alert Systems (SSAS)

Ship Security Alert Systems (SSAS) are specially designed to notify about potential security threats to the ship. This helps in taking timely actions. The Ship Security Officer activates SSAS to send encrypted distress alerts to security centres set ashore. The signals comprise information related to the ship, its location and nature of threat. The system is meant to help enhance the ability to respond timely during crises.

4. Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO)

The Port Facility Security Officers coordinate at the port to implement strict security measures. Here is a look at the same:

• Develop and maintain a Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP)
• Carry out regular risk assessments
• Exchange security information with the Ship Security Officer
• Coordinate with the security personnel on the ships
• Ensure compliance with the ISPS code.

5. Ship Security Assessments

This refers to the extensive evaluations conducted on the ships to assess possible security threats such as unauthorised access, smuggling and piracy. 

Vulnerabilities are identified by examining the security infrastructure and evaluating existing safety provisions. This helps in drafting effective Ship Security Plans to address the issues efficiently.

6. Declaration of Security (DoS)

This is a fundamental element of the ISPS code. It is an agreement between the ship and port facility to maintain security for a defined period. This document specifies the security measures each party must implement to ensure the ship and port are safe. It encourages a shared commitment to lower vulnerabilities and ensure secure maritime operations.

ISPS Code Compliance

The below-mentioned criteria must be fulfilled to ensure ISPS code compliance:

• Ships: They must obtain an International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC). It is issued by the ship’s flag state. A Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) can also provide this certificate. Non-compliance may result in denial of entry to ports.

• Ports: Ports need to obtain a Statement of Compliance of a Port Facility (SoCPF) issued by the national authority. A Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) can also issue this statement. Port facilities also require carrying out a minimum of four minor and one major exercise annually to practice their security plan.

The Role of Technology in ISPS Code Compliance

Technology plays a pivotal role in ensuring the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code compliance. It does so in the following way:

1. Digital Audit Tools: These tools help conduct audits to check whether or not ships and ports comply with the ISPS code.
2. Automated Compliance Checks: Advanced technological tools automate compliance checks. This reduces the time to carry out these examinations and increases efficiency.
3. Real-time Monitoring : Technology has made it easy for organisations to monitor compliance in real-time.
4. Communication Tools: These enable prompt communication between the security personnel on ships and ports for better coordination.
5. Security Systems: Advanced security systems, such as surveillance cameras and cargo screening equipment, can help strengthen the security of ships and ports.
6. Reporting Tools: Security concerns can be reported easily by the employees with the help of reporting tools.

Implications of the ISPS Code for Sellers

ISPS code has the following implications for the sellers:

• Risk Management: The special security code helps sellers assess potential maritime risks. Awareness about it helps them foresee security challenges and overcome them by creating and implementing effective risk reduction strategies in a timely manner.
• Security Plans: The ISPS Code provides a comprehensive framework for creating detailed security plans for ships and port facilities. These strategies include preventive actions, emergency protocols, and communication methods.
• Security Levels: The ISPS Code divides security into three levels. Each requires a different degree of security measures. Sellers can take necessary action depending on the security level.

Conclusion

The International Ship and Port Facility Security Code helps foresee security threats and take timely action to prevent them. Its initiation by the International Maritime Organisation has helped enhance security on ships and port facilities. It offers a systematic method to develop an effective maritime security plan and implement it efficiently.