ISPS Code + CSI Initiative

Question 1

What is the ISPS Code?

Answer 1

• ISPS Code is specifically designed to describe “measures and procedures to prevent acts of terrorism which threaten the security of passengers and crew and the safety of ships”

ISPS Code is in two parts;
* Part A is linked with SOLAS Chapter XI-2 making it mandatory for all ports accepting ships of more than 500GT
from ports of other countries;

• Part B provides guidelines for further implementation of parts of the code and is not mandatory (the EU have made Part B mandatory for all European Community ports);
• However, in ports the code only applies to the “ship/port interface” [interactions that occur when
  a ship is directly and immediately affected by actions involving the movement of persons, goods
  or the provisions of port services to the ship] (SOLAS Ch XI-2, Definitions), but not the rest of the port.
• ISPS Code was drafted 2002, adopted 2004 and with the significant changes across the global maritime industry is now probably out of date.
• ISPS Code was drafted in the immediate aftermath of the 9/11 attacks; looked upon by some as
  an “American abuse of power.” since the time wasn’t taken to look at other crimes committed before that in ports.

Question 2

What are the pros of the ISPS Code?

Answer 2

• Single global code, Part A of which is
  mandatory globally;
• If implemented properly reduces crime rates in ports;
• Code is not overly complicated and has stood the test of time.

Question 3

What are the cons of the ISPS Code?

Answer 3

• Standard of implementation globally is variable at best;
• ISPS Code only applies to the “interface” between ship and port facility leaving the rest of the port uncovered (Mumbai 08).
• Code is now 16 years old, it has not kept pace with evolving security threats and technological developments.
• In order for the Code to be updated a Flag State has to propose the amendment at the Maritime Safety Committee of the IMO and get support; - that;s prob why no action has been taken

Question 4

What is Container Security Initiative (CSI)?

Answer 4

• US implemented Container Security Initiative (CSI) in 2002 designed to
  prevent Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) entering the country.
• Empowered in 2007 to require a 100% check of all TEU by “through the use of non-intrusive (NII) and radiation detection equipment.” by 2012.
• But a 250% increase of container traffic over the 2003-2013 period made the target unachievable.
• Globally, it is assessed that less than 2% of TEU are security checked
  (UNCTAD Review of Maritime Transport 2019 “estimates that 793.3 [2% = >15.8m] million TEUs were moved at container ports worldwide in 2018”).