Question 1

A launch arrives alongside with stores and a contractor before the vessel departs a port facility. What document, required under the ISPS Code, governs the security arrangements agreed between the ship and the port facility for this interface?

Accepted Answer

A Declaration of Security (DoS) — a documented agreement between the ship and the port facility (or another ship) setting out the security measures each party will apply for the duration of the interface, completed when the ship-to-shore activity poses a particular security concern or when security levels differ A Declaration of Security is completed and signed by both the Ship Security Officer (or Master) and the Port Facility Security Officer (or equivalent) when required — for example when the security level is 2 or 3, when the ship is at a higher security level than the port facility, or for ship-to-ship activities such as bunkering. It records who is responsible for which security measures during the interface (access control, screening, monitoring) so nothing is assumed or missed by either party.

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.