Product Overview

Summary: This Security Measures Onboard Safe Operating Procedure sets out clear, practical steps to protect people, assets, and information on vessels and other onboard workplaces. It provides a structured approach to access control, incident response, and threat management, helping Australian operators meet WHS and maritime security obligations while maintaining safe, orderly operations.

Onboard environments—whether commercial vessels, workboats, passenger ferries, offshore platforms, or support craft—are uniquely exposed to security and safety risks. Restricted escape routes, confined spaces, remote locations, and the presence of valuable cargo or critical infrastructure all increase the potential impact of unauthorised access, aggression, theft, sabotage, or terrorism. This Security Measures Onboard SOP provides a robust, step-by-step framework to manage those risks in a way that is practical for Australian marine and offshore operations, integrating security protocols with day-to-day WHS requirements.

The procedure covers the full security lifecycle: from planning and risk assessment, through routine access control and patrols, to escalation, emergency response, and post-incident reporting. It clarifies who does what, when, and how—so that crew and contractors respond consistently and lawfully to suspicious behaviour, security breaches, and onboard violence or disorder. By implementing this SOP, businesses demonstrate due diligence under Australian WHS legislation, strengthen compliance with maritime security expectations, and provide workers with clear guidance that reduces uncertainty and conflict in high-pressure situations.

For organisations operating in Australian waters or from Australian ports, this SOP helps bridge the gap between corporate security policies and real-world onboard practice. It standardises training, supports inductions and toolbox talks, and provides documented evidence of your security controls for regulators, clients, and insurers.

Key Benefits

• Strengthen onboard security controls to prevent unauthorised access, theft, and tampering with critical equipment.
• Ensure a consistent, legally defensible response to security incidents, threats, and aggressive behaviour onboard.
• Reduce the risk of injury to crew, passengers, and contractors arising from violence, disorder, or panic during security events.
• Support compliance with Australian WHS duties and maritime security expectations through clear, documented procedures.
• Improve crew confidence and situational awareness with structured guidance for patrols, checks, and incident reporting.

Who is this for?

• Vessel Masters and Skippers
• Marine Operations Managers
• WHS Managers and Advisors
• Port and Terminal Managers
• Security Officers and Maritime Security Guards
• Offshore Facility Supervisors
• Crew Leaders and Leading Hands
• Harbour Masters
• Emergency Response Coordinators

Hazards Addressed

• Unauthorised access to restricted areas and critical systems
• Workplace violence, aggression, and abusive behaviour towards crew or passengers
• Theft, tampering, or sabotage of equipment, cargo, or safety systems
• Security breaches leading to panic, crowding, or crush injuries
• Interference with emergency equipment and lifesaving appliances
• Psychological harm and stress arising from threats, intimidation, or security incidents
• Increased risk during night operations, remote voyages, or reduced manning
• Exposure to armed robbery, piracy-like incidents, or organised criminal activity in certain operating areas

Included Sections

• 1.0 Purpose and Scope
• 2.0 Definitions and Key Terms (Security and WHS)
• 3.0 Roles and Responsibilities (Master, Crew, Security Officers, Contractors)
• 4.0 Security Risk Assessment and Planning
• 5.0 Onboard Access Control and Visitor Management
• 6.0 Control of Restricted and Sensitive Areas
• 7.0 Screening of Persons, Baggage, Cargo, and Stores (where applicable)
• 8.0 Routine Security Checks, Rounds, and Patrols
• 9.0 Management of Workplace Violence, Aggression, and Disorderly Conduct
• 10.0 Response to Suspicious Behaviour, Objects, and Activities
• 11.0 Incident Escalation, Communication, and Notification Protocols
• 12.0 Coordination with Port Authorities, Police, and Emergency Services
• 13.0 Integration with Emergency and Evacuation Procedures
• 14.0 Information Security and Protection of Sensitive Documentation Onboard
• 15.0 Training, Induction, and Competency Requirements
• 16.0 Recordkeeping, Incident Reporting, and Investigation
• 17.0 Monitoring, Review, and Continuous Improvement of Security Measures
• 18.0 References, Related Documents, and Legislative Requirements

Legislation & References

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and harmonised state and territory WHS Acts
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011 (Cth) and equivalent state and territory regulations
• Safe Work Australia – Managing the Work Environment and Facilities: Code of Practice
• Safe Work Australia – Managing the Risk of Workplace Violence and Aggression in the Health and Community Sector (used as guidance for managing violence and aggression)
• Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 (Cth)
• Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Regulations 2003 (Cth)
• National Standard for Commercial Vessels (NSCV), particularly Part C – Design and Construction and Part E – Operational Practices
• AS 3745: Planning for emergencies in facilities
• AS/NZS ISO 31000: Risk management – Guidelines