SECURITY NOW! THE SECURITY PLAN

The Ship Security Plan is not only vital to the safety of people and shipboard equipment, but it is also required by law. United States and IMO are requiring mariners to have security plans in place and in force. The threat is real and growing. Unauthorized boarding, introduction of prohibited weapons, flammables, explosives, unauthorized occupation or operation of the vessel at sea – and the consequences are truly alarming – cargoes, ships, and perhaps even human lives at risk.

The Ship Security Plans will vary according to the vessel, its cargo, its trade routes and ports of call. But the scope of each ship’s Plan should include the basic elements, namely measures and equipment used to deter the prohibited weapons as well as the unauthorized devices and substances; the restricted areas on the ship shall be clearly identified and any unauthorized access to such areas prevented.

Finally, the third elements is made of the procedures, established to make sure that all security threats are duly responded to and the critical operations maintained, and these procedures shall be strictly adhered to at all times. Note also the procedures involving the emergency evacuation of the people as a result of the security breach. The duties of all ship personnel shall be clear, and the periodic and regular training, exercises, drills and audits be in place.