ISSC validity period?

 

The International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) is valid for a period of five years. During this five-year period, certain audits and inspections must be conducted to ensure continued compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

Key Points on ISSC Validity:

1. Initial Audit:

   • The ISSC is first issued after a successful initial audit, which verifies that the ship’s Ship Security Plan (SSP) is implemented effectively and complies with ISPS Code requirements.

2. Intermediate Audit:

   • An intermediate audit must be conducted between the second and third anniversary of the certificate’s issue date. This ensures that the ship’s security measures remain in compliance during the five-year period.
   • If the intermediate audit is not conducted within this window, the ISSC can become invalid.

3. Renewal Audit:

   • A renewal audit is required before the ISSC expires at the end of the five-year period. The renewal audit is a comprehensive check of the ship’s entire security system.
   • Upon successful completion, a new ISSC is issued, valid for another five years.

Failure to maintain valid ISSC certification may lead to penalties, including detention of the ship or restrictions on international trading.