Ship Security Plan and the ISPS Code
The validity of the SSO's STCW VI/5 Certificate of Proficiency is checked under issuing-Administration and flag rules; its absence is a clear ground, not an automatic detention.
Operational Explanation
The Ship Security Officer must hold the Certificate of Proficiency required by STCW VI/5. STCW sets no universal five-year renewal cycle for it; format, validity and further requirements depend on the issuing Administration and flag.
Regulatory Reference
ISPS Code, made mandatory by SOLAS Chapter XI-2; SSO certification under STCW Regulation VI/5; PSC security inspection procedures updated by Resolution A.1206(34) (2025), which introduces the dedicated Appendix 20 and collaboration with Duly Authorized Officers.
The SSP must be approved by the Administration or an authorised RSO and cover all three security levels (ISPS A/9). Also check the ISSC or Interim ISSC, distinct from the SSO’s personal CoP, and flag-required approvals of amendments. Protect the plan from unauthorised access and disclosure: A/9.8–9.8.1 permits limited inspection only under specified conditions; specially confidential sections require the agreement between Governments specified by the Code. ISPS Part A.
Scope of Application
SOLAS XI-2 applies to passenger ships, including high-speed craft, cargo ships of 500 GT and above, including high-speed craft, and mobile offshore drilling units engaged on international voyages.
Procedure / How to Complete It
- Verify that the SSO holds the required VI/5 CoP.
- Check validity and conditions under the issuing Administration and flag without assuming universal renewal.
- Maintain SSP, drills, records and coordination under ISPS/SMS.
Practical Example
Before arrival check the SSO CoP, ISSC, records and actual SSP implementation. The ship must comply with at least the level set for the port; if operating at a higher level, coordinate with the PFSO and authorities under applicable procedures. Do not independently lower the level or distribute the confidential plan indiscriminately.
What Typically Goes Wrong
Common Mistakes Mistake Library
| Mistake | Consequence | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| SSO lacks a VI/5 CoP valid under Administration and flag rules | Clear ground for a more detailed security examination | Check the document and competent-authority conditions without assuming universal expiry |
| Incomplete SSP drills or records | Preparedness cannot be demonstrated | Apply and document the SSP/SMS programme |
What the PSCO Checks
SOLAS XI-2/9.1.1 limits ordinary control to a valid ISSC or Interim ISSC, accepted unless there are clear grounds. Such grounds or absence of a valid certificate lead to proportionate measures. Duly authorised officers may be the same officers performing I/19 PSC. The SSO’s VI/5 CoP is separate: its absence is a clear ground under A.1206(34), Appendix 20, not automatic detention.
Operational Tips
- Check the VI/5 CoP under issuing Administration and flag rules.
- Do not treat it as a statutory certificate with universal renewal.
- Document drills and familiarisation under SSP/SMS.
Preparation checklist
- SSO holds VI/5 Certificate of Proficiency
- Validity checked under Administration and flag
- Approved SSP protected; ISSC and records checked
- Drills and familiarisation documented
FAQ
Related Topics
Last substantive revision of this page: 16 September 2026 · page fingerprint de2027f4c45b