Chris Trelawny Head Maritime Security Section, IMO
based security controls but which are not a silver bullet; as well as radio frequency identification and smart seal technologies for container security; and the range of underwater detection systems, again which may be useful as part of a layered approach to security where their use is justified by the port facility threat/risk assessment. However these technologies are only useful if the individual operating them has the appropriate skills and the right training.
About the Author
Daniel Levy is part of the Defence and Security division at SMi at www.smi-online.co.uk/defence.asp Contact dlevy@smi-online.co.uk or +44 (0)207 827 6070.
Chris Trelawny is Head of the Maritime Security Section of the IMO.
Levy: How has the security challenge changed in the last 10 years? Trelawny: Prior to 2001, yes there had been terrorist attacks on ships and ferries, bomb threats against the QE2 and various other unlawful acts. The emphasis had been on protection of ships. The thinking after 9/11 was that if they can do that with aircraft, then what about ships as a vehicle for attacks? Thus the emphasis after 9/11 shifted and the main concern was how can we protect ports, population centres and countries from attacks using ships as the vehicle? Consequently the role of the port with respect to security became twofold, the first in protecting the port as an economic hub within the country and the second addressing its role as part of the security chain, particularly at the point of departure. Levy: What do you see as the key technologies in use and being developed? Trelawny: I think that there is too much focus at the moment on the use of technology to ensure security at international ports. Greater emphasis needs to be placed on communication, cooperation and coordination between port management, shipping, industry, law enforcement authorities and Government. The most important tool for risk assessment at a port is the individual and greater emphasis needs to be placed on training at all levels. To answer your question though, I think that the key technologies being developed at the moment are container screening/scanning systems � which have their place within systems
International Port Security, 30th September & 1st October 2009
The IMO s one of a number of organizations who will be speaking at SMi's International Port Security conference.
www.intlportsecurity.com September 2009 www.marinelink.com 57