GAC
ready for ISPS Code
Posted: 4 April 2004
Decision taken to implement code for all vessels
GAC has announced its readiness to comply with the International
Ship & Port Facility Security (ISPS) well ahead of its mandatory
introduction on 1 July 2004.
As a message of confidence to the shipping industry, GAC Dubai
has decided to implement the ISPS code across its fleet of operating
craft.
GAC confirmed this recently at the Intertanko Dubai Tanker Event
where GAC was a key sponsor and participant. Michael Sturesson,
GAC Dubai’s Business Manager – Tanker said: “While
the greatest responsibility of complying with ISPS falls on port
authorities and vessel operators, it touches almost every aspect
of the industry. This includes service providers like GAC, which
offers a Ship Supply Services to ships in the Middle East, offshore
West Africa, Singapore and Sri Lanka.”
Ship Supply Service compliance
All Principal ships served by GAC’s Ship Supply Services are
required to comply with the ISPS Code before the July 1 deadline.
“Our early compliance of the ISPS means that GAC Ship Supply
Services to Principal vessels will not be impacted by any undue
delays resulting from the need for additional security clearances,”
added Mr Sturesson.
In Dubai, GAC operates nine crew / supply boats, five of which
are classified as passenger ships, according to the SOLAS definition.
As some of these craft make occasional voyages to the neighbouring
countries of Iran, Oman and Qatar, they are required to meet the
criteria laid down in the ISPS Code.
Mr. Sturesson pointed out that to achieve this, GAC Dubai has carried
out Ship’s Security Assessments (SSAs) and On Scene Security
Surveys (OSS) and has developed a Ship’s Security Plan (SSP).
Early preparation
The importance of this early preparation has been underlined by
the fact that for several months now, GAC has been receiving requests
from Principals asking GAC to confirm that GAC craft comply with
the new Code, before their vessels can accept a GAC boat alongside.
Areas of compliance for GAC craft include procedures for checking
of all passengers and stores, as well as restrictions on carrying
unaccompanied baggage, weapons and explosives.
A Step Further
GAC Dubai has gone a step further than the letter of the new Code
to highlight its endorsement of the ISPS. To ensure that the most
thorough safety and security procedures are in place onboard all
GAC vessels, GAC is implementing the new security procedures for
all its boats, regardless of whether they are required to comply
with the ISPS Code or not.
”It is all part of the GAC service – ensuring the highest
possible standards to ensure safety and security for our important
shipping clients in a challenging time for the industry we serve,”
said Mr Sturesson.
About the GAC Group
The GAC Group (GAC) is the world’s largest independent shipping,
logistics and marine services provider, with over 200 offices worldwide.
Estabished in 1956, GAC’s core business covers three key
areas – shipping, logistics and marine services. The GAC brand
reflects value for money, quality, continuity, innovation and global
reach.
GAC employs more than 5,000 people worldwide. The GAC Group corporate
head office is in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates.
About GAC Shipping
GAC Shipping is a leading provider of global port and hub agency
services.
In addition to ship's agency, GAC Shipping offers an extensive
range of specialised services such as Bunker Supplies, Ship-to-Ship
Transfers, Canal Transit and Ship Supply Services. GAC Shipping
also acts as correspondents for most International Group P&I
Clubs.
GAC Shipping today represents the interests of more than 3,500
Principals worldwide and attends to over 26,000 vessels annually.
For more information about GAC, visit www.gacworld.com
Posted by Richard Price,
Editor Pipeline Magazine
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