Methodology for identification of potential threats and ship operations as a part of ship security assessment

This paper presents the development of a methodology for the identification of possible intentional threats and key ship operations that may be significant for a ship’s security assessment, carried out by a Company Security Officer. The applicable international and domestic legal regulations regarding ship security systems are here analysed. Key factors and parameters that may provide support for the proper identification of realistic threats are also identified, giving practical relevance to this paper. The information reported here may be of support to those responsible for the development and revision of a ship’s security assessment as it addresses an important part of the maintenance of navigational safety of ship operations under the provisions of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code – ISPS Code.