Security on the sea

What security measures are in place to ensure your cargo moving on the sea is safe?

At any given time, billions of dollars worth of cargo and merchandise are in transit on the open seas. From suppliers to buyers, each is dependant on their respective goods reaching their destinations. Though often overlooked, the fundamental factor remains securing against vulnerabilities.

“As the maritime transportation system underpins the world economy, it remains the dominant support for global commerce,” said Michael Chen, CEO of ST Education and Training (STET), at the 2008 Maritime Security Forum in Dubai last month.

“Therefore, safety and security measures in all aspects of the maritime industry remain vital to continuous growth of business activities, while safeguarding the industry assets and protecting the people involved.”

Based upon excerpts from programmes and guidelines of best known practices, both internationally and regionally established by the ISO, APEC and the EU, STET offers some simplified solutions for maintaining secure port facilities and ships:

• Prevent, detect and deter unauthorised entry of goods/material
• Control and prohibit unauthorised access to facilities
• Screen prospective employees
• Establish a regular security training programme
• Ensure process and control of documents are complete and secure
• Establish written and verifiable security procedures
• Provide a coordinated, structured and comprehensive response to an incident
• Safeguard the custody and integrity of cargo movement – entering, within
  and leaving port
• Extend supply chain security to include organisation’s business partners
• Build resilience while being prepared to handle crisis and emergencies

“Make sure implementation is up to par,” says Chen “It’s a trust system.”

How to protect yourself from pirates

• When near pirate waters, always keep a lookout, especially at the pirates’ favourite boarding point, the stern
• If unknown vessels approach or behave suspiciously, get the crew on deck and maintain their alertness
• Lay out high pressure hoses to blast the pirates with water
• Alert the International Maritime Bureau (+44(0) 207 423 6960) immediately, relaying your coordinates
• Shoot flares in the air to draw as much attention to your vessel as possible
• If armed pirates do board, do not take unnecessary ‘heroic’ risks
• Preserve life at all cost