ISPS certification renewal?

 

The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code certification renewal is the process by which a ship's International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) is revalidated at the end of its five-year validity period. The renewal process involves a comprehensive renewal audit to ensure the ship continues to meet the security requirements of the ISPS Code and that its Ship Security Plan (SSP) is being properly implemented.

Steps in the ISPS Certification Renewal Process:

1. Preparation for the Renewal Audit:

   • Before the renewal audit, the ship’s management (usually the Ship Security Officer or SSO) must ensure that all security documentation is up to date and that the ship’s crew is fully aware of their roles under the Ship Security Plan.
   • It is common practice to conduct an internal security audit in preparation for the renewal audit. This helps identify any potential issues in advance and allows for the correction of minor deficiencies.
   • The ship's operator or company security officer (CSO) must schedule the audit with the ship’s flag state or an authorized Recognized Security Organization (RSO) (typically a classification society).

2. Conducting the Renewal Audit:

   • The renewal audit is carried out by an external auditor from the flag state authority or the RSO. It involves:
     • A detailed review of the Ship Security Plan (SSP), which outlines security protocols, procedures, and measures taken to safeguard the ship.
     • A physical inspection of the ship to check that security measures (such as access control, restricted areas, and monitoring systems) are in place and functional.
     • Verification of crew training, including security drills and their knowledge of security procedures. Auditors ensure that the crew understands their responsibilities at different security levels and can respond to security threats.
     • A check of security records, including logs of security incidents, training records, access logs, and any non-conformities from previous audits.
     • A review of the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) to ensure it is functioning and tested regularly.

3. Correcting Non-Conformities:

   • During the audit, any non-conformities (violations of ISPS requirements) identified by the auditor must be addressed. These are categorized as:
     • Minor non-conformities: Small issues that can be corrected within a set timeframe without affecting the ship’s operations.
     • Major non-conformities: Serious security issues that may require immediate corrective action. In some cases, the ship may be restricted from sailing until the non-conformities are resolved.
   • After the deficiencies are corrected, the auditor will verify the corrective actions and may conduct a follow-up inspection if necessary.

4. Issuance of the Renewed ISSC:

   • Once the renewal audit is successfully completed and any non-conformities have been rectified, the ship will be issued a new International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC).
   • The new ISSC is valid for another five years, provided that the ship passes any intermediate audits that occur during this period.
   • The certificate confirms that the ship complies with the ISPS Code and is authorized to continue international voyages.

5. Intermediate Audits:

   • During the five-year validity of the ISSC, an intermediate audit must be carried out between the second and third anniversary of the certificate's issue date. This audit ensures that the ship continues to meet ISPS Code requirements and that security procedures are still being followed effectively.
   • If the intermediate audit is not conducted within the specified timeframe, the ISSC may become invalid, resulting in operational delays or detainment by port authorities.

6. Consequences of Failing the Renewal Audit:

   • If the ship fails the renewal audit, meaning that serious security deficiencies are found, the ISSC may be withheld or revoked until the ship rectifies the issues.
   • Without a valid ISSC, the ship may face detainment by Port State Control (PSC) or restrictions on international trading.
   • In some cases, insurers may refuse coverage or impose penalties, and charterers may reject vessels without a valid security certificate.

Important Points for Successful Renewal:

• Regular maintenance of security measures: Ships must consistently adhere to the SSP and conduct security drills and crew training regularly to ensure they are always prepared for audits.
• Documentation: All security-related records must be properly maintained, including logs of drills, incidents, corrective actions, and updates to the SSP.
• Timely scheduling: The renewal audit should be scheduled before the expiration of the current ISSC, as delays can lead to certificate lapses and operational issues.

Summary:

The ISPS certification renewal ensures that a ship remains compliant with the ISPS Code’s security requirements. This involves a renewal audit by the flag state or RSO, during which the ship’s security measures, crew training, and security records are reviewed. If the audit is successful, the ship is issued a new International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC), which is valid for five years. The process helps ensure that the ship remains secure and prepared to handle potential threats throughout its operations.