What is ISSC renewal?

The International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) renewal is a mandatory process that takes place every five years to ensure that a ship remains compliant with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. The ISSC certifies that the ship’s security management system meets international standards and that the security measures outlined in the ship’s Ship Security Plan (SSP) are being effectively implemented.

Steps for ISSC Renewal:

1. Preparation for the Renewal Audit:

   • The Ship Security Officer (SSO), in collaboration with the Company Security Officer (CSO), ensures the Ship Security Plan (SSP) is up to date and fully implemented.
   • All crew members must be properly trained on security procedures, and security drills should be conducted regularly.
   • Security records, such as logs of drills, security incidents, access control, and any previous audits, should be in order and available for review.

2. Renewal Audit:

   • The renewal process involves an external audit by the ship’s flag state authority or a Recognized Security Organization (RSO) (such as a classification society).
   • During the audit, the auditor reviews the ship’s security procedures and the effectiveness of the SSP, verifying that:
     • The ship is maintaining appropriate security levels.
     • All security equipment, such as the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) and surveillance systems, is fully functional.
     • Crew members understand their roles in the ship’s security procedures.
     • All documentation is up to date, including security incident reports, audit findings, and corrective actions.
   • A physical inspection of the ship's security measures (e.g., access control, restricted areas) is conducted to ensure compliance with the ISPS Code.

3. Correction of Non-Conformities:

   • If any non-conformities (deficiencies or violations of ISPS Code requirements) are found during the audit, they must be addressed within a specific timeframe.
   • Minor non-conformities: These are small issues that can typically be corrected without major operational disruptions.
   • Major non-conformities: These are more serious security deficiencies that must be corrected before the certificate can be reissued. In some cases, a follow-up audit may be required to verify that corrective actions have been completed.

4. Issuance of the Renewed ISSC:

   • After a successful audit, with any non-conformities resolved, a new ISSC is issued by the flag state or RSO.
   • The renewed ISSC is valid for another five years, subject to passing intermediate audits during the certificate’s validity period.

5. Intermediate Audit:

   • During the five-year validity period, an intermediate audit must be carried out between the second and third anniversary of the certificate's issuance.
   • This audit ensures that the ship’s security system continues to comply with the ISPS Code. If the intermediate audit is not completed in the specified timeframe, the ISSC may become invalid.

6. Consequences of Failing to Renew the ISSC:

   • If the ISSC renewal is not completed before the expiration date, the ship may face serious consequences, including:
     • Detention by Port State Control (PSC), resulting in operational delays.
     • Ineligibility to enter certain ports or regions that require a valid ISSC for access.
     • Potential impacts on insurance coverage or charter agreements.
     • Increased scrutiny or penalties from regulatory authorities.

Key Points in ISSC Renewal:

• The ISSC is renewed every five years after a successful external audit.
• The renewal audit checks the ship’s compliance with the ISPS Code and the effectiveness of its security management system.
• If non-conformities are found, they must be resolved before the certificate is reissued.
• An intermediate audit is required during the five-year period to ensure continued compliance.
• The renewed ISSC allows the ship to continue international operations without security-related restrictions.

In summary, ISSC renewal ensures that the ship maintains the highest security standards, safeguarding both the crew and the vessel while enabling it to operate globally