Cruise ship security is, in many ways a more complex operation than one might suspect. It includes access control (entry and exit), x-ray screening machines, walk-through metal detectors, explosive / drug trace detectors, pat-down searches, wanding and so the list goes on. Additionally, the security staff rotate for vacation, which usually lasts two months. When the ship is not in a port of call, that is the time to catch up on training: safety, security, Human Resources, etc. The training and exercises for those with cruise ship security duties are mandated usually in the Ship Security Plan and the ISPS Code (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code) and records are audited at pre-determined intervals by Port State Authorities, Flag State, and a Recognised Security Organisation (Such as Lloyds of London) as well as internal audits. These audits focus on training records, certifications, and performance. With a constant turnover of security personnel including security guards, and security officers (who supervise and train the guards) it can be a daunting task keeping accurate records, ensuring compliance management and workforce readiness.
Ideally, a bespoke database which provides compliance tracking, as well as employee compliance, is the solution. Local administration onboard each ship and shoreside management has the ability to monitor each vessel for quality assurance purposes.
OpeReady Systems developed an Operational Compliance Management System (OpeReady) which consists of three main components:
- Workforce Compliance Tools
- Assessment Tools
- Advanced Performance Analysis Tools
For managers and supervisors, OpeReady provides many other modules to make compliance tracking, performance monitoring and quality assurance up-to-date and ready for the next audit. Receiving notifications for training and certificate renewals provides reassurance and peace of mind noncompliance will not occur.