IMO regulation SOLAS XI-2/6

The International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) regulation SOLAS XI-2/6 defines mandatory requirements and guidance for Ship Security Alert Systems (SSAS).

An SSAS system should:

• Provide a minimum of two alert activation points, one of which must be on the bridge.

• Allow covert activation which transmits an alert signal from ship to shore, indicating to a competent authority that the security of the ship is under threat or has been compromised.

• Not raise the alert on board ship, nor alert any
other ships.

In addition the SSAS should comply with defined performance standards:

• The radio system used for the ship security alert systems should comply with relevant international standards.

• The SSAS should be powered from the ship’s main source of electrical power. It should, in addition, be possible to operate the system from an alternative source of power.

• Activation points should be capable of being used on the navigation bridge and in other locations. They should be protected against inadvertent operation. It should not be necessary for the user to remove seals or to break any lid or cover in order to operate any control.

• The activation points should operate a radio system such that transmission of the security alert does not require any adjustment of the radio system ie. tuning to channels, setting of modes or menu options. Operation of the activation points should not cause any alarm or indication to be raised on the ship. The operation of the SSAS should not impair the functionality of the GMDSS installation.

• In cases, transmission initiated by security alert system activation points should include a unique code/identifier indicating that the alert has not been generated in accordance with GMDSS distress procedures. The transmission should include the ship identity and current position*. The transmission should be addressed to a shore station and should not be addressed to ship stations.

*a position should normally be associated with time.

Exact requirements for the proposed future Long Range Ships Identification and Tracking System have yet to be finalised, but regulations are due to follow Comsar and MSC meetings scheduled in 2004.