Ship security system

Security level:  There are 3 security levels, namely, Security Level 1, Security Level 2, and Security Level 3, defined in the ISPS Code.

Flag States will set security level for their ships.

A ship prior to entering a port or while in the port, is required to comply with the security level of the flag state or the port state, whichever is the higher.

The master is required to have information on board concerning persons or organizations responsible for the appointment and employment of crew members of the ship.

Ships are to be provided with a ship security alert system.

Ships are subjected to port state control with respect to compliance with chapter XI-2. The port state
control inspection in this respect is limited to verifying that there is on board a valid international ship
security certificate (ISS certificate) issued under the provisions of Part A of the ISPS Code.

The master of a ship has the overriding authority and the responsibility to make decisions and measures with respect to the safety and security of the ship.

A ship is required to carry on board a ship security plan approved by the flag state on the basis of a ship security assessment.

The company operating a ship shall designate a company security officer (CSO) for the ship.

Each ship is required to have a designated ship security officer (SSO).

The CSO, the SSO, appropriate shore-based personnel and shipboard personnel having specific security duties and responsibilities are required to undergo training in maritime security in accordance with the guidance given in Part B of the ISPS Code.

Drills and exercises with respect to the ship security plan are required to be carried out at appropriate intervals by all parties concerned with the ship security plan.

A ship, after a verification that the ship complies with chapter XI-2 and the ISPS Code will be issued an International ship security certificate (ISS Certificate) valid for a period not exceeding 5 years. Within the 5-year validity period of the ISS Certificate, the ship is required to have an intermediate verification which will be endorsed on the ISS certificate.

A ship is required to act upon the security levels set by the port state or the flag state, whichever is appropriate by carrying out the activities prescribed in the ISPS Code with the aim of identifying and taking preventive measures against security incidents.