ISPS and security in the Port

ISPS is an abbreviation for the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code. It is a set of measures that is intended to increase maritime security in ports and on ships. The IMO (International Maritime Organization) operating under the authority of the UN has advocated the Code.

• Fenced harbour areas.
• All units must be reserved in advance in order to secure access to the harbour area.
• All units carry a goods inventory, which must be presented at the loading port. The above also concerns dangerous goods.
• Overnight stays in the fenced area is prohibited.
• The authorities are entitled to conduct spot checks on all cargo units.

The ISPS Code is divided into security levels. They fluctuate depending on the situation and possible relevant threats. Each country's police authorities determine the security levels, and thus, they may alter from one port to the next.