SA’s security code rules to be gazetted shortly

THE PROCESSING of the rules for the International Ship and Port Security (ISPS) code in SA are progressing as planned, according to Carl Briesch of the SA Maritime Safety Association (Samsa) - one of those involved in drafting the regulations. The ISPS was conceived by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) as part of the global plan to heighten security and safety on ships and at ports around the world in light of the 911 terrorist attack on the US and the danger of ships being used to carry weapons of mass destruction. The final date for comment on the draft was May 15, Briesch told FTW, with the submissions under scrutiny by the drafting team on May 27. After this, the final recommendations were to be made to the Minister of Transport, with the rules then due to be gazetted soon after - well in time for the imposition of ISPS at all SA commercial harbours on July 1. The enabling legislation behind the new rules is contained in the Maritime Shipping Act.