Explain ISPS inspection.

 The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code inspection is conducted to ensure that both ships and port facilities comply with security measures outlined in the ISPS Code. This Code is part of the SOLAS Convention, established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and is aimed at preventing and managing potential security threats, such as terrorism, piracy, or smuggling.

ISPS inspections focus on verifying that the ship security plan (SSP) and other required security measures are being implemented correctly. These inspections can be carried out by a ship’s flag state, recognized security organizations (RSOs), or Port State Control (PSC) officers.

Key Aspects of an ISPS Inspection:

1. Security Plan Verification (Ship Security Plan - SSP):

   • The ISPS Code requires every ship to have an approved Ship Security Plan (SSP). During the inspection, the inspector ensures that the plan:
     • Is up to date and approved by the flag state or an authorized recognized security organization.
     • Includes security procedures for different security levels, as defined by the ISPS Code.
     • Covers all key areas of ship security, including access control, restricted areas, and measures to protect the ship from unauthorized access.
   • The inspector checks if the crew is following the procedures outlined in the SSP and if the plan addresses current security risks.

2. Certification Check (International Ship Security Certificate - ISSC):

   • The International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) is issued to ships that comply with the ISPS Code requirements. The inspector will verify that the ship has a valid ISSC.
   • If the ISSC is expired or missing, the ship may be detained or prevented from operating internationally until compliance is restored.

3. Security Levels Implementation:

   • The ISPS Code outlines three security levels that ships must comply with:
     1. Security Level 1: Normal operations, where basic security measures are in place.
     2. Security Level 2: Heightened threat levels, requiring additional security measures.
     3. Security Level 3: Imminent threat, requiring maximum security.
   • During the inspection, the inspector ensures the ship is aware of and capable of implementing the appropriate security level, as advised by the port or relevant maritime authorities.
   • Inspectors check how the ship responds to changes in security levels and verify that the crew can adapt security measures accordingly.

4. Physical Security Measures:

   • Inspectors check the physical security of the ship, including:
     • Access control points: Ensuring that unauthorized personnel cannot board the vessel.
     • Restricted areas: Verifying that areas like the bridge, engine room, and cargo holds are secured and access is restricted.
     • Ship perimeter: Checking for barriers, gates, and surveillance equipment (e.g., cameras) to protect the ship from unauthorized access.
     • Identification systems: Ensuring all personnel entering or leaving the ship are properly identified and logged.
   • The inspector may also check for the presence of security personnel or the use of other physical security measures, such as patrols or monitoring equipment.

5. Ship Security Officer (SSO) Responsibilities:

   • Every ship must have a designated Ship Security Officer (SSO) responsible for the ship’s security operations. During the inspection, the competence and duties of the SSO are reviewed.
   • The inspector ensures that the SSO:
     • Is trained and certified as required under the ISPS Code.
     • Understands the SSP and can effectively manage the ship's security measures.
     • Has communicated security responsibilities to the crew and ensured that everyone is aware of their security duties.

6. Crew Training and Drills:

   • The ISPS Code requires regular security training and drills to ensure that the crew is prepared to respond to security threats.
   • The inspector will review training records to verify that the crew has received appropriate security training, including the roles and responsibilities of each crew member during a security event.
   • Inspectors may also observe or request a demonstration of a security drill, such as responding to an unauthorized boarding or dealing with a suspicious object. The drill demonstrates the crew’s ability to handle security incidents.

7. Security Communication and Reporting:

   • The inspection checks the ship’s communication procedures for reporting security incidents and escalating security threats. This includes:
     • Procedures for communicating with port authorities and coastal states about security concerns.
     • Methods for alerting the company security officer (CSO) and flag state authorities in case of a security breach.
   • The ship must have a functioning Ship Security Alert System (SSAS), which allows the ship to send a covert alert to the relevant authorities if it faces a security threat. The inspector may test the SSAS to ensure it works correctly.

8. Documentation and Records:

   • Inspectors will review key documents and records required by the ISPS Code, including:
     • Security records, such as access logs, visitor logs, and records of security drills and training.
     • Security incident reports, detailing any security breaches or suspicious activities.
     • Security audits, including internal audits conducted by the company to verify the effectiveness of the SSP.
   • These records help demonstrate the ship’s compliance with security protocols and provide evidence of past security performance.

9. Port Security Liaison:

   • The ship’s interaction with port facility security is also reviewed. This includes procedures for exchanging security information with the Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) and implementing port-specific security measures.
   • Inspectors may verify that the ship has completed a Declaration of Security (DoS) with the port facility, which outlines the security responsibilities of the ship and port while in port.

Types of ISPS Inspections:

1. Initial Audit:

   • Before a ship is issued its first International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC), it undergoes an initial audit to ensure full compliance with the ISPS Code. This is typically conducted by the flag state or a recognized security organization (RSO).

2. Intermediate Audit:

   • Ships are subject to intermediate audits within the five-year validity period of the ISSC. These are conducted between the second and third anniversary of the certificate issuance to ensure continued compliance with the ISPS Code.

3. Renewal Audit:

   • Similar to the initial audit, the renewal audit is conducted at the end of the five-year ISSC validity period. It involves a full review of the ship's security measures and the re-issuance of the ISSC if the ship passes the audit.

4. Port State Control (PSC) Inspections:

   • In addition to flag state audits, Port State Control (PSC) officers can also perform spot checks on foreign ships when they visit a port. During a PSC inspection, officers may review the ship’s compliance with the ISPS Code, including the validity of the ISSC, the implementation of the SSP, and the ship’s physical security measures.

Consequences of Failing ISPS Inspections:

• If a ship fails an ISPS inspection, it may be issued a list of deficiencies or non-conformities that must be corrected within a specified time.
• In the case of serious non-conformities, such as a lack of a valid ISSC or major security failings, the ship can be detained by port state authorities or restricted from operating until the issues are resolved.
• If the flag state or RSO identifies major deficiencies during an audit, the ISSC can be revoked, preventing the ship from legally trading internationally until compliance is restored.

Summary:

An ISPS inspection ensures that ships and port facilities comply with international security standards to mitigate threats like piracy and terrorism. The inspection covers a broad range of areas, including verifying the ship’s security plan, ensuring the crew’s preparedness, and checking physical security measures. Ships must have a valid International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC), and any non-conformities found during inspections must be corrected promptly to avoid penalties or operational disruptions.