Lloyd’s Register to Collaborate with IDS International

Lloyd’s Register is pleased to announce its collaboration with Initiative Development Services International Ltd (IDS International), a maritime and corporate security specialist based in the UK. The alliance with IDS International will play a key role in Lloyd’s Register’s preparations for attaining recognized security organization (RSO) status under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code included in the recently adopted amendments to the Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS). IDS International will help Lloyd’s Register meet the RSO criteria, boosting the organization’s maritime security service capability. Specifically, IDS International will help Lloyd’s Register to: develop its ability to assess likely security risks in the context of ship and port operations identify current security threats and patterns recognize and detect weapons, dangerous substances and devices recognize the characteristics and behavioral patterns of persons who are likely to threaten security provide knowledge on the techniques used to circumvent security measures and enhance knowledge of security and surveillance equipment and systems and their operational limitations. As an RSO, Lloyd’s Register will be responsible for verifying compliance with the ISPS Code; towards that end, it is currently training the 250 auditors who will provide the service and developing a client training services program. Lloyd’s Register expects that it will begin conducting audits by mid 2003, dependent on delegation of authority by individual flag Administrations. In addition, Lloyd’s Register will begin offering training courses to clients and publish its ISPS Practical Pack – a set of guidelines for achieving compliance – in March 2003.

“The combination of Lloyd’s Register’s expertise within the commercial maritime industry and the specialist knowledge and experience of IDS International will enable Lloyd’s Register clients to meet the evolving needs of the shipping industry for greater and more effective maritime security,” says Simon Jones, Managing Director of IDS International. “The lead taken by the International Maritime Organization by adopting the ISPS Code represents a realistic and dynamic opportunity for the industry to implement a much needed security framework. This framework will protect the shipping industry worldwide, with the aim of preventing future incidents from occurring.” Captain Andrew Mitchell, Lloyd’s Register’s Head of Marine Management Systems, adds: “We are delighted to be working with IDS International. This alliance has created a strong team capable of assisting new and existing clients in meeting the timescales imposed by the new regulations.”