What is the purpose of the ISPS Code and which parties must implement it?

• A. Security framework to prevent terrorism and illicit activities; required for ships and port facilities, with compliance by owners/operators and port authorities; requires risk assessment, security plans, and drills.
• B. Environmental protection guidelines.
• C. ISPS Code is optional.
• D. Applies only to fishing vessels.

Answer: (A)

The ISPS Code establishes a security framework to prevent acts of terrorism and other illicit activities against ships and port facilities by using a risk-based approach. It is mandatory for ships that sail on international voyages and for the port facilities that serve those ships, with compliance carried out by the shipowners/operators and by the port authorities or administrations that regulate the facilities. The Code requires key measures: conducting a Security Risk Assessment, developing and implementing Security Plans (for ships and for port facilities), and carrying out drills and exercises to test security procedures. This combination—a clear security purpose, the scope covering both ships and ports, and the requirement for risk-based plans and regular drills—explains why this option best matches the ISPS Code.