As the clock and calendar turn, the 1st July 2004 deadline set by IMO for the introduction of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code under SOLAS Chapter XI-2 closes in. The task agenda is demanding. Yet for the most part, the shipping side of the maritime community is expected to meet ISPS certification requirements by next July.

Singapore is taking tough measures to prevent terrorist attacks on ships without hampering trade. At a recent maritime security seminar, the Senior Director of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), Lee Seng Kong, stated that "the maritime security measures adopted by the IMO are necessary to further safeguard the world maritime trade from the threat of terrorist attacks."

Those that do not achieve the required results will almost certainly be restricted or delayed in their international trade, as the controls levied by a combination of flag and port states, supported by authorised Recognised Security Organisations (RSOs) as delegated representatives of the Contracting Governments and a wide array of authorities and institutions, are brought to bear. Virtually every sign already emanating from such entities around the world indicate in clear terms that a highly demanding, zero-tolerance international security compliance regime will prevail beginning no later than 1st July 2004.

DNV is committed to the smooth and effective implementation of the ISPS Code through this Society's Ship Security Plan (SSP) approval and shipboard verification processes. To achieve these objectives, DNV has trained approximately 150 dedicated security surveyors, located throughout the world.

IMO is presently finalising an MSC Circular on Port State Control security measures and procedures that will have a major effect on port inspections. Port facilities must be brought on-line relative to the ISPS Code as quickly and uniformly as possible. Flag State administrations must accelerate their policy and procedural work, as well as further appointments of RSOs to meet the time and volume needs ahead. Competencies must be achieved at all levels from that of Contracting Governments down to deck-plate crewmembers. Verifiable crew IDs must be developed and distributed. Assessments, plans and shipboard verifications must be developed, implemented, and carried out - to ensure an effective security system onboard, and not as a mere exercise in paper-thrashing and box-ticking.
Meanwhile, DNV can assure that all DNV-classed ships will be in a satisfactory position, time-wise, to receive an International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) or Statement of Compliance (in those cases where not yet authorised by the Flag State Administration), provided a company commitment is made with DNV prior to 1st February 2004. DNV also invites and welcomes application from non-DNV-classed shipping for ISPS services.

As we progress forward, DNV strongly concurs in the wise words of Singapore MPA's senior director, Lee Seng Kong, who recently stated: "The maritime security measures adopted by IMO are necessary to further safeguard the world maritime trade from the threat of terrorist attacks ... maritime security must become (as) integral to the shipping community as safety has been ... owners and operators must ensure that all maritime security measures are in place by the deadline ... we all have a role to play."
We do indeed ... and welcome the opportunity.

For more information contact:
Thomas.Weik@dnv.com