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Chapter XI-2, Special Measures to Enhance Maritime Security, has been created and includes a requirement for ships and companies to comply with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. The ISPS Code contains two parts. Part A is mandatory, while Part B is recommendatory and contains guidance for implementation of the Code. The USCG has decreed that sections of Part B of the Code will also be taken into consideration. Chapter XI-2 also sets out requirements for ship security alert systems and control and compliance measures for port states and contracting governments.

As well as the new Regulations in SOLAS Chapter XI-2, the Diplomatic Conference has adopted amendments to extant SOLAS Regulations accelerating the implementation of the requirement to fit automatic identification systems (AIS) (Chapter V). The Diplomatic Conference has also adopted a number of Conference Resolutions including technical co-operation, and the co-operative work with the International Labour Organisation and World Customs Organisation.

Review and amendment of certain of the new provisions regarding maritime security may be required on completion of the work of these two organisations.

These requirements form a framework through which ships and port facilities can co-operate to detect and deter acts which pose a threat to maritime security. The regulatory provisions do not extend to the actual response to security incidents or to any necessary clear-up activities after such an incident.

In summary the ISPS Code:

• Enables the detection and deterrence of security threats within an international framework
• Establishes roles and responsibilities
• Enables collection and exchange of security information
• Provides a methodology for assessing security
• Ensures that adequate security measures are in place.
  

• Gather and assess information
• Maintain communication protocols
• Restrict access; prevent the introduction of unauthorised weapons, etc.
• Provide the means to raise alarms
• Put in place vessel and port security plans; and ensure training and drills are conducted.