Maritime Security

The Department for Transport (DfT) is responsible for security across all forms of transport, including maritime and it leads on providing a bespoke service to UK Flagged vessels which includes evidenced maritime security guidance and advice. The DfT is also able to provide assistance to UK Flagged vessels should they have any difficulties. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is an Executive Agency of the DfT and being the UK’s Maritime Administration, has operational responsibility to ensure that UK ships anywhere in the world and non-UK ships in UK waters comply with the regulatory requirements.

Ship Security Assessment and Ship Security Plan

For each ship, the Company Security Officer (CSO) must submit a Ship Security Assessment (SSA) and Ship Security Plan (SSP) before the planned interim verification.

We will require contact details of your CSO to send the relevant forms and instructions by secure email.

Ship Security Alert System

The company must arrange for the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) to be programmed so that in case of activation, after the flag-in process is completed, a covert ship security alert is sent to the first responder or responders appointed by the company and to the Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centre (JRCC).

Certification Requirements for Company Security Officers and Ship Security Officers

The Company Security Officer and Ship Security Officers must be trained and hold appropriate certification issued under the authority of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) or any flag state Administration as per MSC.1/Circ.1163.

Ship Identification Numbers and Continuous Synopsis Records

Ship Identification Numbers (SINs) and Continuous Synopsis Records (CSRs) are special measures to ensure maritime safety contained in the SOLAS Chapter XI-1. They are also closely associated with the application of the ISPS Code. SOLAS Chapter XI-1 Regulation 3/4.1 requires that a SIN be permanently marked in a visible place on the vessel as applicable.

The CSR is intended to provide an on-board record of the history of the ship. Every ship that SOLAS Chapter I applies to must have an updated CSR containing specified information.

The Registry of Seamen and Shipping (RSS) issues Carving and Marking Notes and CSRs. You can contact the team by email at uksr@mcga.gov.uk or call them on +44 (0)20 3908 5200.