Security in ports. Code of practice

This code of practice, developed jointly by the International Labour Office and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), provides useful guidelines to help reduce the risk to ports from threats posed by unlawful acts. This code offers a valuable framework for formulating and implementing security strategies and identifying potential risks to a port’s security and is intended to promote a common approach to port security amongst Member states. It outlines security roles, tasks and measures to deter, detect and respond to unlawful acts against ports serving international traffic and maritime operations and may also form the basis for security strategy in domestic ports. The vital issues of security awareness and training are also addressed.

While advocating a proactive approach to port security, this code follows, where possible, the practice and principles identified in the IMO’s ISPS Code and acts as a valuable, complementary guidance document to it as it extends consideration of port security beyond the area of the port facility into the whole port. The measures covered here apply security guidelines to all areas and functions of the port, and those working in, having business with and requiring access to the port or transiting through the port. These include port workers and other port personnel, seafarers, passengers and passengers’ baggage, cargo, material and stores, vehicles and equipment originating from within and outside the port area. The code also offers assistance in maximizing the effectiveness of security measures through systematic drills, exercises, tests and audits of security procedures to identify and correct non-compliance, failures and weaknesses. Practical examples of a port security assessment and a port security plan are also included.