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ISPS Code Compliance Achievable, Says Expert
01 May 2003
Industry-wide compliance with not only the letter but also the spirit of the ISPS Code by July of next year is not only achievable but also essential, a leading security training provider has told Maritime Journal.
Companies which operate in recognised 'high risk' areas may appear to need the Code more than others. But according to Jim Cowling, managing director of Maritime Security Solutions Ltd, 9/11 and the Bali bombing have shown that we have all become increasingly vulnerable to general security threats.
'The ISPS Code will establish a good worldwide Standard Operating Procedure and the IMO have done well to put it together in such a short time, ' he said. 'They expect us to respond accordingly, and an ISPS compliant merchant navy will make seafaring less vulnerable.'
Cowling expressed sympathy for shipping companies nervous about the financial and administrative burden compliance poses, particularly as they await clear guidelines on accreditation and approval of courses as the July 2004 deadline looms ever closer. The logistics of implementing the code industry wide are formidable, with companies operating worldwide under different classification societies and thousands of officers requiring training.
However, Cowling is convinced that common sense, practicality, and cost control are key to a successful outcome. 'For example, ' he said, "incorporating the production of Ship Security Plans with in-house CSO training can have real financial, practical and time-saving benefits. Ship Security Assessments can be combined with SSO training on board ship.'
MJ Information No: 18211
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