Maritime security ensures the safety of cargo, crews and ships across the seas. And the SSAS (Ship Security Alert System) has a major role in it. It allows the crew to signal danger during a sea voyage. The system is installed on ships in accordance with global regulations, such as the SOLAS and ISPS Code. It enables shore authorities to respond immediately when a vessel witnesses threats like armed robbery and piracy.
This blog discusses what is ship security alert system, the ISPS Code and how the SSAS functions.
What is the ISPS Code?
The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code is a set of security measures and protocols to safeguard ships and facilities against various threats. It was established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2004 under the SOLAS Convention to improve the security of ships in seas and at ports.
The Code outlines guidelines for port staff, governments, ship crews, and shipping enterprises to act effectively, maintain security plans and assess risks in response to potential dangers. It divides operations into three different security levels: exceptional, normal and heightened, to suit the various types of threat levels. Adherence to this Code is mandatory for global shipping.
What is the ship security alert system (SSAS)?
This security system is a silent alarm installed on ships to send a signal to the shore authorities that the ship’s security is in danger, without announcing the threat onboard. According to the SOLAS Convention, ships that are more than 5000 gross tonnes need to have the SSAS system installed along with two hidden activation buttons. One button should be on the bridge, and the other one should be installed in a secure area. This will allow the crew to send a covert danger signal to shore authorities.
What is the purpose of SSAS in maritime?
The ship security alert system plays a crucial role in maritime operations, as it sends a covert alert to the ship’s owner, shore authorities and flag state when the ship is under attack due to terrorism or piracy. It does so without alerting the perpetrators. This enables the authorities to respond immediately to rescue the ship and the crew.
Importance of the ship security alert system (SSAS)
The ship security alert system (SSAS) is essential in the following ways:
- Reliable and instant alerts: The system sends alerts, which include important data such as location, ship’s identity and time. This enables immediate help from the shore authorities.
- Covert protection: SSAS enables the crew to quietly summon help during severe situations without alerting the attackers.
- Global compliance: It is required under ISPS and SOLAS, as it ensures that ships meet international maritime protection standards.
Need for SSAS in maritime
This ship alert system was established after the 9/11 attacks in the US to strengthen maritime security. It became compulsory under the ISPS Code in 2004 and under the SOLAS Chapter XI-2 in 2006. The system was designed to address modern-day dangers, such as armed larceny and piracy, particularly in high-risk maritime locations.
What information does the ship security alert system offer?
When the SSAS system gets activated, it sends certain information, such as the ship’s name, Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number and IMO number, precise location, date, call sign, course and speed covertly. This enables the authorities located on the shore to assist and track the ship.
How does SSAS work?
The SSAS alert system contains a power source, a GPS receiver, control buttons and a satellite transmitter. It also has over two activation points, which are placed and hidden in accessible and secure areas of the vessel, such as the engine room and bridge. When it gets triggered, the system sends an ongoing silent alert through its satellite (typically an email or SMS) to the predefined recipients, such as the flag state and owner of the ship. SSAS keeps on sending alerts until it deactivates without any audible or visible alarms onboard.
Benefits of SSAS in maritime
The SSAS in ship can provide many advantages. Here are some of the main ones:
- Asset and cargo protection: With the help of quick intervention, the SSAS system helps lower the chances of cargo loss from hijacking or piracy.
- Compliance and deterrence: Having the SSAS system can deter attacks and ensure that the ships align with the global security measures.
- International signalling: This system functions through the satellite, making sure the signal reaches the shore authorities no matter where the ship is located at sea.
- Improved crew safety: The crew can call for aid discreetly during a security breach.
Importance of marine insurance in critical situations
A marine insurance policy offers monetary protection against various risks. It covers damages, ship or cargo loss, including theft and piracy, under specified risk policies. However, the standard marine plan might exclude piracy, which normally falls under the war risks. For the voyages that travel through high-risk locations, the marine war risk plan offers necessary protection. Along with SSAS, the policy can help manage security and financial risks associated with the perils of the sea.
Conclusion
The SSAS is an essential and silent lifeline for ships that experience risks at sea. Under the SOLAS and ISPS Code, this system ensures covert danger alerts, allowing shore authorities to respond immediately. Besides security systems, a marine policy provides a financial safeguard against covered risks. Depending on the frequency of shipments, you can choose between multi-transit or single-transit insurance.
FAQs
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Which ship should have the SSAS system?
Ships that are more than 500 gross tonnes and have been made after 2004 must have this security system installed as per SOLAS regulations.
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Are onboard alarms triggered when the SSAS get activated?
This system sends out silent alerts to the shore without making any sound or visual signals on the ship to avoid alerting the attackers.
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What if an SSAS button is pressed accidentally?
Accidental triggers can take place. Due to such reasons, buttons are always covered and located in a secure area.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. Please read the sales brochure / policy wordings carefully for detailed information about on risk factors, terms, conditions and exclusions. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.