The ISPS Code — International Ship and Port Facility Security Code — is the IMO’s mandatory security framework for ships and port facilities, adopted in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks to address maritime security threats.
What It Requires
- Ship Security Plan (SSP) — every vessel subject to ISPS must have a documented, approved security plan
- Ship Security Officer (SSO) — a designated officer responsible for implementing and maintaining the security plan onboard
- Company Security Officer (CSO) — the shore-based counterpart responsible for company-wide security policy
- Port Facility Security — ports and terminals handling international vessels must also meet ISPS security requirements
- Security levels — a three-tier system (Level 1 normal, Level 2 heightened, Level 3 exceptional) dictating specific security measures at each level
Practical Impact Onboard
ISPS compliance affects daily operations: controlled access to the vessel, restricted areas, visitor logging, security drills, and coordination with port facility security during cargo operations and crew changes.
ISPS and ISM Code
ISPS (security) and the ISM Code (safety management) are related but distinct frameworks — ISPS specifically addresses deliberate security threats, while ISM addresses broader operational safety and pollution prevention management.
Exam Relevance
ISPS Code structure, security levels, and shipboard security officer responsibilities are standard topics in deck officer competency exams and mandatory security-awareness training.