Improved ISPS compliance with YIM!
The world of port companies, maritime suppliers and marine shipping is a special market segment with very specific challenges. From offshore oil extraction and wind power generation to large-scale logistics hubs; this is where work takes place where only the highest degree of safety suffices. Not only for the employees and contractors involved, but also for the continuity of operations. The management of access to these hybrid sites must not only be 100% well regulated, but also compliant with legal frameworks and Safety requirements. Think of the ISPS standardisation, for example. Within the maritime sector, this can be a constant source of stress and uncertainty. But what actually is the ISPS standardisation? And what does it mean for security policies at these sites that are in full development? We asked Cedric van Riemsdijk, Business Manager YIM , to understand how they help meet these challenges.
ISPS-background
The ISPS code was drawn up by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). This code sets out the minimum security requirements regarding the security of ships, port facilities and government agencies to prevent intentional unlawful acts. The ISPS code also spells out various objectives, such as:
- Create an international framework for cooperation
- Define the roles and responsibilities of all parties
- Ensure early and efficient cooperation and exchange of information
- Provide a methodology for ship and port security assessments
- Ensure adequate and proportionate maritime security measures
The challenge: The legal storm of Maritime Safety
Often, companies within the maritime sector are vulnerable due to their hybrid nature. Thus, Cedric van Riemsdijk recognises the unique challenges and vulnerabilities that apply to this complex operating environment. This not only brings operational challenges, but also increases vulnerability in case of emergencies. The limited accessibility explains why the prevention piece is so important. Just imagine what life-threatening situations unauthorised persons on oil rigs (or on ocean-going vessels) can cause or threaten others, resulting in staff being put in life-threatening situations. Moreover, this sense of vulnerability is compounded by the complexity of laws and regulations when it comes to deploying personnel and third parties and allowing safe access to these hybrid locations. For instance, the ISPS code has a tough requirement to restrict access to different parts of the ship/port for staff, third-party contractors and visitors. Especially now, high security awareness and effective first-access procedures are necessary to avoid unnecessary delays and maintain continuity.’
Access management at Allseas
For companies in the maritime sector, the responsibility is great. For instance, an essential requirement is to track and verify the identity of all persons handling or entering a ship in port. It is therefore important to ensure that a person complies with the given security certifications to perform their work on the ship in a safe manner. To address these complex challenges, Allseas, a leading global contractor in the offshore energy market, chose the solutions of Nsecure, IT service provider and market leader in access control and security and YIM. Thus, Allseas was looking for user-friendly solutions that seamlessly fit the future prospect, but also the high demands around their ISPS identity code, security and access management.
YIM for maximum security and safety
At YIM, we understand that companies like Allseas want to be secure, compliant and have certainty about their complex challenges. To achieve this, we offer an access and identity management SaaS platform that provides control and insights. This enables companies like Allseas to streamline and improve identity management, access control and security processes. Through our contractor management solution, they can increase the level of security and compliance, allowing them to better manage their operational risks and comply with applicable regulations. Thus, Van Riemsdijk explains: ‘The access process must be able to provide quick answers based on a number of security considerations. You need to know for sure who you are giving access to, who that person really is and whether he or she has the necessary rights. By storing advance certificates and documents such as ID documents and driving licences in a personal digital file, along with certificates and proof of attending specific security training courses that are AVG-proof, every contractor, visitor or employee is verified before they enter the premises. This gives visitors a faster green (or red) light to enter or not enter the site.
The result? Controlled access for individuals based on the required qualifications, thus complying with the ISPS code. Moreover, Allseas is now able to drastically reduce the number of accidents per hour worked (LTIFR) and the total number of serious accidents (LTI). This also leads to a reduction in contractors' waiting time costs, as work permits are now fully compliant and comply with laws and regulations.
An essential link
For instance, Alain Cras, Vessel Manager at Allseas, says: ‘The concept meets all requirements when it comes to registering people quickly and in a controlled way. There is also a link to our ERP system for time registration. Meanwhile, the chosen solution is proving its added value and the concept has been rolled out across all (hybrid) branches. Registration, authorisation and accreditation of persons is now faster, safer and compliant with laws and regulations. The solution also ensures significant cost savings, as we have 24/7 visibility on the duration of subcontractors' work performed.’
About YIM: The contractor, visitor en employee management solution
YIM was developed on the basis of more than 25 years of knowledge and experience in the field of identity & access management. YIM works for clients in very diverse sectors; from petrochemicals and maritime to financial service providers. Each with their specific challenges and regulations.