Cruise Ship Cruise Ship Security and ISPS Code 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does 'ISPS Code' stand for and what is its primary purpose?
- International Ship and Port Facility Security Code — a framework to detect and deter threats to ships and ports (Correct answer)
- International Standard Passenger Safety Code — covers lifeboat requirements
- Integrated Ship Protocol and Safety Code — covers ISM compliance
- Internal Security and Port Surveillance Code — for CCTV requirements
Correct answer: International Ship and Port Facility Security Code — a framework to detect and deter threats to ships and ports
The International Ship and Port Facility Security Code was adopted after 9/11 and entered into force in 2004, establishing a risk-based framework for security measures on ships and in port facilities worldwide.
Question 2: Who is responsible for a cruise ship's overall security under the ISPS Code?
- The port security officer at each port of call
- The Ship Security Officer (SSO) appointed by the company (Correct answer)
- The lead law enforcement officer on board
- The flag state representative
Correct answer: The Ship Security Officer (SSO) appointed by the company
The Ship Security Officer (SSO) is designated by the company and reports to the master, holding day-to-day responsibility for implementing and maintaining the Ship Security Plan under the ISPS Code.
Question 3: Under the ISPS Code, what are the three maritime security levels?
- Alpha, Bravo, Charlie
- Security Level 1 (normal), Security Level 2 (heightened), Security Level 3 (exceptional) (Correct answer)
- Low, Medium, High
- Green, Amber, Red
Correct answer: Security Level 1 (normal), Security Level 2 (heightened), Security Level 3 (exceptional)
The ISPS Code defines three security levels: Level 1 (minimum routine measures), Level 2 (additional measures due to heightened risk), and Level 3 (exceptional measures in response to a probable or imminent attack).
Question 4: What document outlines all security procedures, responsibilities, and protective measures for a specific cruise ship?
- Ship Safety Management Manual
- Ship Security Plan (SSP) (Correct answer)
- International Safety Management Certificate
- Company Security Policy Statement
Correct answer: Ship Security Plan (SSP)
The Ship Security Plan (SSP) is a confidential document approved by the flag state or recognized security organization that specifies exactly how the ship will respond to various security threats at each ISPS level.
Question 5: What is the purpose of the 'Declaration of Security' (DoS) between a cruise ship and a port facility?
- To declare the ship's cargo contents to customs
- To formally establish and agree on respective security responsibilities during ship/port interface (Correct answer)
- To authorize the ship to carry weapons for self-defense
- To certify that all passengers have passed security screening
Correct answer: To formally establish and agree on respective security responsibilities during ship/port interface
The Declaration of Security is a written agreement between the ship and port facility that identifies security activities and responsibilities during their interface, ensuring both parties maintain consistent security measures.
Question 6: What background check is required for non-US citizen crew members serving on cruise ships that call at US ports?
- Interpol background check
- US Coast Guard TWIC card or C-1/D crewmember visa with CBP vetting (Correct answer)
- DHS classified clearance
- State Department security clearance
Correct answer: US Coast Guard TWIC card or C-1/D crewmember visa with CBP vetting
Non-US crew members on ships calling at US ports must hold a valid C-1/D combination visa and are vetted by CBP; US citizen crew working in secure areas may require a TWIC card.
Cruise Ship Cruise Ship Security and ISPS Code 1
What does 'ISPS Code' stand for and what is its primary purpose?