200522 Breach of Security

Breach of Security
MARS Report 200522

Prior to arriving at a European Port, the Master sent the customary Initial Security Message. In the message he asked the Agent for details of all activities, people visiting etc. and he advised the Agent what would be happening from his side. Upon arrival, when the vessel was still tying up, the terminal operator decided to lower the shore gangway onto the foredeck of the vessel.

The Master reacted immediately and despatched one of the crew-members to meet the boarding party. Among those boarding were:

1. The Agent.
2. A Vetting Inspector.
3. A Security Auditor.
4. A Charterer's representative.
5. A Loading Master.
6. A Fire Extinguisher serviceman.

The Crew member tried to challenge them, however, he did not manage to stop them and they proceeded to the Master's office. A few minutes later a "sludge barge" came alongside the vessel, the crew of which decided to jump on board and tie up the barge themselves. Both of these incidents happened before the vessel had finished tying up and all the crew were still at stations. Soon after the vessel finished mooring, a small boat with provisions arrived and the vessel's crew were occupied with them and landing an electric motor.

As can be seen from the above, some events were difficult for the vessel to control, however, in order to restrict access to the vessel the following actions should be taken.

1. Ensure that correct planning is made with the Agent before arrival; this must include times of barges arriving alongside, as problems associated with them are increasing.
2. React to any breaches of security immediately.
3. Ensure that the Agent co-ordinates the arrival of the suppliers in a reasonable manner within the vessel's requirements.
4. The Master must ensure that the Terminal Authorities are aware not to board until the vessel is ready to receive them, this may be relayed through the Agents or the Terminal Authorities.
5. The Master should, where possible, ensure that there is minimum delay between safely mooring the vessel and attending to the security procedures for persons boarding the vessel upon arrival.