The International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code) represents a significant change for the international maritime community in its approach to security, bringing together shipboard and port security to provide better protection for people, ships, cargoes and port infrastructure.

PORT PROTECTION

The Port of Felixstowe Port Security Plan outlines the procedures required to meet the standards set and monitored by TRANSEC, the Transport Security Division of the Department for Transport who have responsibility for implementing the ISPS Code in UK ports and ships.

The established Port Police Unit, supplemented by Contract Security Officers, provide comprehensive security services in support of the enhanced security measures. Stricter access control and identification requirements, increased searching of personnel and cargo, continuous patrolling and monitoring of the port estate and seaward approaches are just some of the many additional security measures which have been introduced.

As well as physical security measures the ISPS Code also defines a Security Management System. It is essential in the present climate that security is embedded in the culture of the port. Security is now as relevant to the whole workforce in everyday operations as safety and quality. Regular meetings with internal and external stakeholders, regular communications and poster campaigns are all part of increasing security awareness in the changed world post 9/11.

PORT POLICE UNIT

The Port Police Unit is a statutory police force committed to the prevention, detection and investigation of crime and any suspicious activity across the dock estate, working closely with other agencies and organisations to make the Port of Felixstowe a safe and secure environment for workers, customers and visitors alike. The Port Police Unit will continue to provide the port and its customers with an immediate response to calls for assistance or advice on security and related issues 24 hours a day.

FIRE AND AMBULANCE

A team of fully trained fire and ambulance personnel is immediately available in the case of fire, accident, chemical emergency or other incidents on the Port requiring specialised attention. Assistance can be summoned immediately by dialling 4300 on the Port internal telephone system. A team of full-time officers and men are on duty at the Port Fire Station 24 hours a day and a ‘paging’ system is operated to summon supporting members of the fire and ambulance service, if required, when an emergency arises.

Two fire appliances, fully equipped with rescue equipment including heavy-duty cutters and if necessary a bulk foam facility with a chemical response vehicle, are all maintained for immediate use.

They are all manned by personnel trained in fire fighting, advanced life-support, rescue and hazardous chemical procedures. Two fully equipped ambulances are ready for immediate use in the event of accidents involving personal injury, each vehicle carrying up-to-date life-support equipment and a crew of qualified ambulance personnel.

Environmental incident first response equipment including oil booms and a 2000 gallon vacuum suction tank is available in the event of oil or chemical spillage in the harbour or dyke systems.

A training facility also exists for company and non-company employees in fire protection and prevention and in dealing with small fires. Sessions are run on a regular basis.