Piracy - Revised IMO Guidance on the use of Armed Security Personnel in the High Risk Area

The IMO has recently published MSC.1/Circ.1405/Rev.1 “Revised Interim Guidance to Shipowners, Ship Operators, and Shipmasters on the use of Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel (PCASP) on Board Ships in the High Risk Area”.

At the same time as providing comprehensive guidance on the use of PCASP the IMO emphasises that the employment of PCASP should not be regarded as an alternative to Best Management Practices and other protective measures, and that the use of PCASP should only be considered after a full risk assessment has been completed.

Members planning to employ PCASP are reminded that they should send a draft copy of the proposed employment agreement to the Club for review before the agreement is finalised.  Failure to do so may result in the Member assuming risks or liabilities which may not be covered.

In addition, IMO has re-issued MSC.1/Circ.1406/Rev.1 “Revised Interim Recommendations for Flag States regarding the use of Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel on Board Ships in the High Risk Area” and has also released MSC.1/Circ.1408 “Interim Recommendations for Port and Coastal States regarding the use of Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel on Board Ships in the High Risk Area”.

Members requiring further information should contact the Loss Prevention department.