The Code in practice

Reflecting the issues of the day, this issue of The Motor Ship takes a look at ship and port security, in particular the ISPS Code ? its implementation and compliance, as well as relevant training, systems and technology.

We at The Motor Ship, like many others in the industry, could be

forgiven for thinking that we would perhaps, by now, be reporting that many non-compliant ports have been closed and the port state control detention of non-compliant vessels was causing considerable port

congestion. Instead, however, the lack of such incidents has meant that the author of our ISPS Code/Security feature (see page 14) found

himself having to take a different tack on this issue.

Of course, even taking into account the number of ship owners and operators who have made every effort to comply to the ISPS Code, there are still a good number of vessels that have not made the deadline. So, what is the real reason for the lack of detained vessels? Is it because the authorities are displaying a degree of leniency and ports are turning non-compliant vessels away, effectively to return another day when they are certificated? Though maybe not as sensational (and arguably more negative) as a story based on the mass detentions that could?ve been, this is the current question that needs to be answered.

To those having to comply and gain certification, however, the

important ISPS Code-related question may be one of

cost ? of technology, security systems and training. Ship operators/managers, who invariably shoulder the responsibility for compliance, are faced with two fundamental choices outside of the actual cost of purchasing and installing equipment. One is to entrust a consultant with the responsibility of ISPS Code certification. The other is for them to create all Ship Security Plans and train ships? captains and crews themselves.

There is no doubt that undertaking all matters of compliance and

certification in-house is far more cost-effective. As to whether getting help or going it alone in gaining certification is the best course for ship

operators/managers, however, may be down to personal preference or maybe a matter of available budget. Either way, this is yet another

question to be answered.

The Motor Ship would like to hear from all ship owners and ship

operators/managers who would like to comment on their chosen course for gaining ISPS Code certification, or indeed and other relevant aspect.

Please contact the Editor at r.burton@highburybiz.com