Malta issues notice regarding the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code

The Merchant Shipping Directorate of Transport Malta has issued a revised technical notice regarding the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

This Technical Notice was issued on April 17th, 2023, and is addressed to all ship owners, ship operators, managers, masters, owners’ representatives, and recognized organizations.

Although Part B of the ISPS Code is recommendatory, all Companies are still required to consider the guidance in Part B in order to comply with the requirements of SOLAS Chapter XI-2 and the ISPS Code.

The EU Regulations* on enhancing ship and port facility security include sections of Part B** of the ISPS Code as mandatory.

*Regulation (EC) N6 725/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 March 2004 on enhancing ship and port facility security (entry into force 1st July 2004).

**Part B Paragraph 1.12, 4.1, 4.4, 4.5, 4.8, 4.14-4.16, 4.18, 4.24, 4.28, 4.41, 4.45, 6.1, 8.3-8.10, 9.2, 9.4, 13.6, 13.7

The sections related to ship security are to be considered mandatory for Maltese ships.

Companies are also reminded that a number of contracting governments will be enforcing certain paragraphs of Part B of the ISPS Code thus making the vessel (entering into their ports facilities) subject to port State control inspection vis-à-vis Part A and certain paragraphs of Part B of the ISPS code.

The Administration requires that particular consideration be taken for paragraphs 8.1to 13.8*** of part B of the ISPS Code in order for an ISSC to be issued.

***Ref to MSC/Circ. 1097 paragraph 8 – 9 and IACS procedural requirements No. 24

This Technical Notice and guidelines are applicable to the following Maltese ships engaged in international voyages:

• Passenger ships, including high-speed craft
• Cargo Ships, including high-speed craft, of 500 gross tonnage and upwards
• Mobile Offshore Drilling Units

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):

International Ship and Port Facility Security Code

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