Ship Security Officer Quarterly Security Inspection

Quarterly Ship Security Officer inspection template for ISPS Code compliance, covering access control, gangway watch, visitor logs, ID checks, restricted areas, and security equipment readiness.

Inspection Details and Scope

• Inspection date and vessel identification recorded
  Confirm the vessel name, IMO number or internal vessel ID, port/location, and inspection date before starting.
• Inspection completed within quarterly interval
  Verify this inspection is being completed at an interval not exceeding three months from the prior SSO security inspection.
• Inspector identified as authorized Ship Security Officer or delegate
  Confirm the person performing the inspection is authorized to conduct the security inspection.
• Reference documents available
  Select the documents used during the inspection.

Gangway Watch and Access Control

• Gangway watch is continuously manned when required
  Verify the gangway is monitored in accordance with the Ship Security Plan and current security level.
• Access point is controlled and unauthorized entry prevented
  Check that access to the vessel is controlled and unauthorized persons cannot board without authorization.
• Visitor and contractor identification verified before boarding
  Confirm identity checks are performed before allowing visitors or contractors onboard.
• Access control log is complete and legible
  Review the access log for date, time in/out, name, company, purpose of visit, escort status, and authorization.
• Visitor badges or passes are issued and returned
  Verify temporary passes, badges, or escort controls are issued on entry and collected on exit.

Visitor Logs and Identity Checks

• Visitor log contains required entry fields
  Check that the log includes date, time, full name, organization, ID type, purpose of visit, escort name, and time out.
• Identity documents were checked against the log
  Verify that identity checks are performed and recorded for each visitor or contractor.
• Log entries are sequential and free of unexplained gaps
  Review the log for missing entries, duplicate entries, or unexplained corrections.
• Any denied access events were documented
  Confirm denied or delayed access events are recorded with reason and follow-up action.
• Visitor log retention meets ship procedure requirements
  Verify logs are retained and stored according to the Ship Security Plan and company procedure.

Restricted Areas and Shipboard Security Measures

• Restricted areas are marked and secured
  Confirm restricted spaces, access doors, and security-sensitive areas are clearly identified and secured against unauthorized access.
• Doors, hatches, and access points are closed and secured
  Check that non-essential access points are closed, locked, or otherwise controlled as required.
• Security seals or tamper indicators are intact where used
  Inspect seals, locks, or tamper indicators for signs of compromise.
• Lighting and visibility at access points are adequate
  Rate the adequacy of lighting and visibility at the gangway and nearby access points.
• CCTV or monitoring equipment covering access points is operational
  If installed, verify cameras or monitoring devices covering access control points are functioning and recording as required.

Security Equipment, Communications, and Drills

• Security communication devices are operational
  Verify radios, alarm communication, or other security communication devices are functional and available for use.
• Security equipment inspection shows no visible defects
  Check barriers, locks, seals, lights, and other security devices for damage, tampering, or missing components.
• Security drills or exercises are current
  Confirm required security drills or exercises have been planned and implemented per vessel procedure.
• Corrective actions from prior inspection were closed
  Verify prior deficiencies or non-conformances have documented closure or an approved action plan.

Findings, Corrective Actions, and Sign-Off

• Deficiencies or non-conformances documented
  Record all deficiencies, non-conformances, or critical items identified during the inspection.
• Corrective action owner and due date assigned
  Document the responsible person, target completion date, and immediate controls for each finding.
• Inspector signature
  Inspector signs to confirm the inspection was completed accurately.