Product Overview

Summary: This Maritime Security Measures SOP sets out clear, practical steps to protect vessels, ports, and offshore operations from security threats while maintaining compliance with Australian maritime and WHS obligations. It provides a structured framework for managing access control, screening, incident response, and communication so your people, assets, and cargo remain secure in dynamic marine environments.

Australian maritime operations face unique and evolving security risks, from unauthorised access and cargo tampering through to terrorism, organised crime, and insider threats. This Maritime Security Measures Safe Operating Procedure translates complex legislative and security requirements into practical, step‑by‑step processes tailored for ports, terminals, vessels, and offshore facilities operating in Australian waters. It ensures that frontline personnel know exactly what to do before, during, and after a security event, and that supervisors can demonstrate due diligence and compliance.

The SOP provides a clear structure for security risk assessment, access control, visitor management, screening of people and goods, and routine security patrols in maritime environments. It also defines escalation pathways, communication protocols with port authorities and government agencies, and coordinated emergency response procedures for security incidents such as bomb threats, suspicious packages, stowaways, and unauthorised small craft. By implementing this procedure, organisations can align their maritime security arrangements with Australian regulatory expectations, reduce the likelihood and impact of security breaches, and integrate security controls with broader WHS and emergency management systems.

Designed for real‑world use, this SOP supports consistent training, onboarding of new staff and contractors, and regular drills and exercises. It provides the documentation backbone needed to support audits, incident investigations, and continuous improvement, helping Australian maritime businesses protect their workforce, reputation, and supply chain reliability.

Key Benefits

• Ensure alignment with Australian maritime security legislation and international maritime security obligations.
• Reduce the likelihood of security breaches, unauthorised access, and cargo tampering across port and vessel operations.
• Standardise security procedures and communication protocols for all staff, contractors, and security providers.
• Strengthen incident readiness through clear escalation, response, and post‑incident review processes.
• Support audit readiness and demonstrate due diligence to regulators, clients, and insurers.

Who is this for?

• Port Facility Security Officers (PFSO)
• Ship Security Officers (SSO)
• Maritime Operations Managers
• Harbour Masters
• WHS Managers – Maritime and Ports
• Marine Terminal Supervisors
• Offshore Facility Managers
• Security Contractors and Guards – Ports and Terminals
• Logistics and Stevedoring Managers
• Emergency Management and Business Continuity Coordinators

Hazards Addressed

• Unauthorised access to restricted port, terminal, or vessel areas
• Terrorism and deliberate acts of sabotage targeting maritime infrastructure
• Stowaways and unlawful non‑citizen entry via vessels or port facilities
• Cargo tampering, theft, and interference with dangerous goods
• Armed robbery or piracy in port approaches and anchorages
• Insider threats from staff or contractors misusing access privileges
• Security‑related crowd management risks during emergencies or protests
• Suspicious packages, bomb threats, and improvised explosive devices
• Cyber‑physical security interface risks affecting access control and surveillance systems

Included Sections

• 1.0 Purpose, Scope and Objectives
• 2.0 Definitions and Abbreviations (ISPS, PFSO, SSO, MTOS Act, etc.)
• 3.0 Roles, Responsibilities and Authority
• 4.0 Applicable Legislation, Standards and Reference Documents
• 5.0 Security Risk Assessment and Threat Levels
• 6.0 Security Zones and Access Control Requirements
• 7.0 Personnel Identification, Badging and Visitor Management
• 8.0 Screening of People, Baggage, Cargo and Vehicles
• 9.0 Control of Contractors, Suppliers and Service Providers
• 10.0 Vessel Interface and Berth Security Arrangements
• 11.0 Patrols, Surveillance and Monitoring (CCTV, alarms, perimeter checks)
• 12.0 Management of Suspicious Behaviour, Items and Activities
• 13.0 Response to Specific Security Incidents (bomb threats, stowaways, unauthorised craft, intrusion)
• 14.0 Communication and Escalation Protocols (internal, port authority, regulators, emergency services)
• 15.0 Integration with WHS, Emergency and Evacuation Procedures
• 16.0 Information Security and Handling of Sensitive Security Information
• 17.0 Training, Induction, Drills and Exercises
• 18.0 Incident Reporting, Investigation and Recordkeeping
• 19.0 Audit, Review and Continuous Improvement
• 20.0 Document Control and Version History

Legislation & References

• Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 (Cth)
• Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Regulations 2003 (Cth)
• Security of Critical Infrastructure Act 2018 (Cth)
• International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code (as applied in Australia)
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and model WHS Regulations (as implemented in each state/territory)
• AS/NZS ISO 31000:2018 Risk management – Guidelines
• AS 4801 / ISO 45001: Occupational health and safety management systems
• Safe Work Australia – General guide for workplace traffic management (relevant to port and terminal access control)