What is ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security ) code?

February 23, 2026 Jack

🔐 What is the ISPS Code?

The ISPS Code (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code) is an international maritime security framework developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to enhance the security of ships and port facilities worldwide.

It was adopted in December 2002 and came into force on 1 July 2004 under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), Chapter XI-2.

The main objective of the ISPS Code is to detect and prevent security threats to ships and port facilities, especially after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

🚢 Why Was the ISPS Code Introduced?

Before 2001, maritime safety focused mainly on:

Navigation safety
Fire prevention
Life-saving equipment
Pollution prevention

However, there was no structured global system for maritime security against terrorism, piracy, or sabotage.

After the September 11, 2001 attacks, IMO member states recognized the vulnerability of:

Ships as targets
Ports as critical infrastructure
Shipping as a global economic backbone

As a result, the ISPS Code was created to provide a standardized global security framework.

📘 Structure of the ISPS Code

The ISPS Code consists of two parts:

1️⃣ Part A (Mandatory Requirements)

This section is compulsory for:

Contracting governments
Port authorities
Shipping companies
Ships engaged in international voyages

2️⃣ Part B (Guidance)

This section provides recommendations and guidelines on how to implement Part A effectively.

🚢 Ships Covered Under ISPS Code

The ISPS Code applies to:

Passenger ships (including high-speed craft)
Cargo ships ≥ 500 GT
Mobile offshore drilling units
Port facilities serving such ships

It applies only to ships engaged in international voyages.

🏢 Key Components of ISPS Code

1️⃣ Ship Security Plan (SSP)

Every ship must have a Ship Security Plan approved by its flag administration.

The SSP includes:

Security procedures onboard
Access control measures
Restricted areas
Handling of cargo and stores
Response to security threats

2️⃣ Ship Security Officer (SSO)

Each ship must appoint a Ship Security Officer (SSO) responsible for:

Implementing the SSP
Conducting security drills
Reporting security incidents

3️⃣ Company Security Officer (CSO)

Each shipping company must appoint a Company Security Officer (CSO) who:

Ensures ships comply with ISPS
Conducts security assessments
Coordinates with port security

4️⃣ Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP)

Each port facility must:

Conduct a security assessment
Develop a Port Facility Security Plan
Appoint a Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO)

🚨 Security Levels Under ISPS Code

The ISPS Code defines three security levels:

Security Level	Meaning
Level 1	Normal security (minimum protective measures maintained at all times)
Level 2	Heightened security (additional protective measures for a period of time)
Level 3	Exceptional security (specific protective measures when a security incident is probable or imminent)

Security levels are set by the Contracting Government.

📡 International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC)

Ships complying with the ISPS Code are issued an International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) after verification.

Valid for 5 years
Subject to intermediate verification
Checked during Port State Control inspections

🔎 Declaration of Security (DoS)

A Declaration of Security (DoS) is completed when:

A ship operates at a higher security level than the port
There is a specific security threat
Required by authorities

It defines security responsibilities between ship and port facility.

🛡️ Major Security Measures Under ISPS

The ISPS Code requires:

✔ Access control to ships
✔ Monitoring restricted areas
✔ Cargo screening
✔ Identity checks
✔ Ship security alert system (SSAS)
✔ Security drills and exercises
✔ Continuous communication between ship and port

🚢 Ship Security Alert System (SSAS)

All ships under ISPS must be fitted with a Ship Security Alert System (SSAS).

Silent alarm system
Sends alert to flag state and company
Does NOT sound onboard alarm
Used during piracy, hijacking, terrorism

🌍 Importance of ISPS Code

The ISPS Code:

Strengthens global maritime security
Reduces risk of terrorism
Protects international trade
Standardizes security procedures worldwide
Enhances cooperation between governments

Over 160+ IMO member states implement the ISPS Code globally.

⚖️ Legal Basis

The ISPS Code forms part of:

SOLAS Chapter XI-2
Mandatory for SOLAS contracting governments
Enforced by Flag State & Port State Control

Non-compliance can result in:

Detention of ship
Heavy fines
Refusal of port entry

📌 Summary

The ISPS Code is a global maritime security framework developed by the IMO under SOLAS to protect ships and ports from security threats.

It requires:

Security plans
Appointed security officers
Security levels
Certification
Continuous monitoring and drills

It is one of the most important international maritime security regulations in modern shipping.