Maritime Security

Please also see the following web links for further information:

- Maritime Security Resources
- Maritime Security Links
- Maritime Security ISPS FAQs



ISPS Code - compliance update

With the arrival of the ISPS deadline, returns submitted to IMO from governments representing 22,539 ships and 7,974 ports suggest that some 40% of ships may still lack the required International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC), with a similar percentage of ports having no approved Port Facility Security Plan.
A rapid acceleration in compliance in the run-up to 1st July, suggests that the real figures may be better than those shown by declarations. Whatever the exact position, it is to be hoped that port state control authorities take a pragmatic attitude to the last minute rush.

The Association's latest circular invites Members to submit copies of their certificates to minimise the risk of delay in the event that it becomes necessary to verify that a ship has an ISSC. This may be required where there is a request for a Club guarantee, and in the event of certain other serious or security related claims.

Members have raised concerns about a variety of security related issues, on which further information can be found in the maritime security FAQs page.

Ship security assessments, security training and ship security plans

Members should be aware that from 1st July 2004 all cargo ships and passenger ships of 500 gt or more (and mobile offshore drilling units) will have to comply with the provisions of the IMO International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. For ships trading to the USA, final regulations implementing additional security requirements of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 will also take effect from that date.

For many shipowning companies, the preparation and maintenance of effective ship security plans has meant acquiring new skills and expertise. A related page on this site provides access to relevant resources such as the texts of key security legislation, details of voluntary security programs, relevant Club Circulars and links to relevant websites. In addition, the Club's links pages have a special Maritime Security section which contains additional information and resources.

We particularly commend the International Chamber of Shipping's 'Guidance for Ship Operators on the IMO International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code' which Members can access in electronic form both from our security resources page and from Member Updates - and we are grateful to ICS for permitting electronic access. In addition, a complimentary hard copy of this publication was mailed to each Member. Further copies can be purchased from ICS by e-mail to publications@marisec.org, or by phone: +44 20 7417 8844.

We have also purchased a number of copies of a Model Ship Security Plan recently developed by the International Chamber of Shipping which can be made available to Members who require it. The Plan, which comes with an electronic copy on CD ROM so that additional copies can be made, is available on application to your usual Club contact.

Most shipowners will need some assistance in the work of preparing for compliance with the new regulations, and most will look to a maritime security specialist, compliance specialist, or class society for help. Owners should also bear in mind that in some cases individual Flag Administrations may have their own guidance on how they expect compliance to be accomplished.

Members may find it useful to be aware that International Maritime Security (IMS), a leading security firm, has joined forces with consultants Corbett & Holt/Gallagher Marine Services (C&H/GMS) to offer assistance to shipowners in achieving timely compliance with the ISPS Code. IMS cites almost 20 years' experience of providing shipboard assessments and security training to more than 500 companies, whilst C&H have assisted many UK Club Members in environmental compliance. Details of their combined security plan services and charges can be obtained by e-mailing info@candhgms.com, or by phone: +1-703-836-2200, or fax: +1-703-836-3923.

Technical security enquiries - advice service

Expert advice from C&H/GMS/IMS is available without charge for UK Club Members in relation to specific technical security compliance enquiries. If you have a technical question and wish to use the service, please contact their security advice line, identifying yourself as a UK Club Member, either by e-mail to info@candhgms.com or by telephoning +1 703 836 2200. Please note that this free service is for a reasonable number of specific queries, and does not extend to chargeable services such as on-board security assessments, training programmes, or full preparation and submission of a security plan.

Insurance related security enquiries

If you have a question about the insurance implications of any security matters, including the ISPS Code, please address this to the managers through your usual contact, or via e-mail to nigel.carden@thomasmiller.com.