Question 1

During your oral exam you are asked: what is the purpose of the ISPS Code, and what are the three security levels under the Code?

Accepted Answer

The ISPS Code (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code) establishes a framework for assessing and managing security risks to ships and port facilities; the three security levels are Level 1 (normal — minimum appropriate protective measures maintained at all times), Level 2 (heightened — additional protective measures for a period due to increased risk), and Level 3 (exceptional — further specific measures for a limited period when a security incident is probable or imminent) The ISPS Code, introduced following the September 11, 2001 attacks as an amendment to SOLAS, requires ships and port facilities to have security plans and designated security officers (Ship Security Officer/Company Security Officer/Port Facility Security Officer), with the security level providing a graduated response to changing threat conditions. The level is typically set by the relevant contracting government (flag state or port state) and communicated to the vessel — a vessel's Ship Security Plan must detail the specific additional measures to be implemented at each level, such as increased access control, additional patrols, or restricted areas, and crew should understand their role in implementing these measures regardless of the current level.

Question 2

Your vessel receives notification that the port you are heading to has raised its Security Level from 1 to 2. As the designated Ship Security Officer (or officer on watch), what should happen?

Accepted Answer

Implement the additional security measures specified in the Ship Security Plan for Security Level 2 (e.g. increased monitoring of restricted areas, additional checks on visitors/stores, more frequent security patrols) before arrival, and acknowledge/report the change as required The Ship Security Plan defines specific additional measures for each security level. A change in level requires the vessel to implement the corresponding measures promptly — ideally before arrival — and this is a core ISPS Code obligation.

Question 3

What is the purpose of designating "restricted areas" on board under the Ship Security Plan?

Accepted Answer

To control access to areas where security-sensitive information, equipment, or cargo is held (e.g. bridge, engine room, security equipment stores), preventing unauthorised access that could compromise the security of the ship, crew, passengers or cargo Restricted areas are a core ISPS measure — limiting access to sensitive spaces reduces the risk of unauthorised interference, sabotage, or security breaches, and access control to these areas is checked during security drills and audits.