A New Era of Maritime Security
In December 2002, the IMO introduced SOLAS XI-2, mandating the ISPS Code: a comprehensive framework for governments, shipping companies, and port authorities to detect and deter threats to maritime security. Compliance with Part A is mandatory for applicable ships and port facilities.
- Passenger ships, including high-speed passenger craft
- Cargo ships of 500 GT and above, including high-speed craft
- Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODUs)
- Port facilities serving such ships on international voyages
The Objectives of the ISPS Code
International cooperation framework
Establish a collaborative structure to detect security threats and prevent incidents across borders.
Clearly defined responsibilities
Clarify roles at national and international levels for every party involved in maritime security.
Efficient information exchange
Ensure timely collection and dissemination of security-related information.
Risk-based assessments
Provide a methodology so plans and procedures adapt to changing threat levels.
Proportionate measures
Maintain confidence that adequate and proportionate security measures are in place.
The Path to Certification
Phase 1: Ship Security Plan (SSP) Approval
- Application: Submit the SSP, the Ship Security Assessment (SSA), and copies of CSO & SSO certificates to BKI.
- Plan Review: BKI reviews the SSP. Insufficiencies are returned for correction.
- Approval: Once compliant, BKI issues an SSP Conformance Document and places an "Approval" stamp on each SSP page.
Phase 2: Onboard Verification & Certification
- Implementation: SSP implemented on board for a minimum of three months.
- Initial Verification: BKI auditor verifies implementation and ISPS compliance.
- Certification: BKI issues an Initial Verification Report and a short-term ISSC (valid 5 months), then manages issuance of the permanent ISSC.
Maintaining Your Certification
The International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) is valid for five years and requires periodic verifications:
- Intermediate Verification: Conduct between the 2nd and 3rd anniversary dates.
- Renewal Verification: Conduct within six months prior to the expiry date.
Interim ISSC Certification
BKI may issue an Interim ISSC, valid for six months, to allow operation while completing full certification—e.g., for new ships, ship transfers to new companies, or flag changes.
- Ship Security Assessment (SSA) completed
- Approved Ship Security Plan (SSP) is on board and implemented
- Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) installed and compliant
- CSO ensures SSP application: drills, training, internal audits
- Master, SSO, and crew are knowledgeable of security duties
ISPS Register
All certified companies and ships are registered and published by BKI in the official ISPS Code Register Book. Contact BKI to validate entries or request publication updates.
