Problems Dealing with ISPS

While the ISPS Code has provided a roadmap for vessel and port security for the maritime industry, ship owners are demanding standardization in its interpretation and implementation of security. The problems stem from uncertainties, misconceptions, and unresolved issues.

Among the woes faced by ship owners:

?Crew shore leave
?Restriction on Stores and Spares
? U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) ISPS Verification
?Differences in interpretation of the code
?Confidentiality of security documents to be maintained on board
? Ship Security Alert System (SSAS)
?Automatic Identification System (AIS) and Long-Range Identification System (LRIS)
?Dockyards, port barges and small craft security
?Differences in security level between vessels and ports
?Port area parameter security
?Crew security identity

Crew leave is one of the major issues, as those with visas are allowed to go ashore, but those of specific nationalities are not allowed to leave the ships. The cost of visas for most foreign sailors is prohibitive and denying them shore leave only worsens fatigue and loneliness.

Ship owners complain that it is extremely hard to attract and retain experienced mariners, because ports and state authorities reject their basic rights. They have called upon authorities and port operators to review their security threat mitigation to ensure that the rights of seafarers are respected and not inhibited.

To facilitate shore leave for crew, vessel operators have suggested that a standardized seaman identity card be accepted worldwide. This could be achieved by establishing a centralized body to issue the mariner identity cards.

Another problem is the different interpretation of ISPS Code in some countries, which results in a vessels being detained. Part of the problem is that various port authorities demand that the Ship Security Officer be named in the Safe Manning Certificate and/or the Port Clearance Certificate.

Vessel operators believe that the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Safety Committee should intervene on behalf of ship owners and crews by ensuring uniform implementation of the Code. There are a variety of forms that must be filled out for different ports, different arrival notification methods, and various levels of in port inspections, which has created unneeded complications for shipping companies.

Shipping companies around the world are insisting that the IMO implement a uniform verification system that would be employed in every corner of the world. In the meantime, crews are being held prisoners on ships, and vessel operators are incurring enormous costs due to the variances in the implementation of the Code.