What is ISS Certificate

The ISPS Code is administered under the framework of the International Maritime Organization.

In simple terms, an ISS Certificate is an official document that confirms that a ship has been inspected and found to comply with international maritime security requirements.

What is an International Ship Security Certificate (ISS Certificate)?

An International Ship Security Certificate (ISS Certificate) is issued to a vessel after verification that:

• the ship has an approved Ship Security Plan,

• the required security equipment and procedures are in place, and

• the vessel complies with the security provisions of the ISPS Code.

It is one of the main certificates checked during port State control inspections.

When is an ISS Certificate required?

An ISS Certificate is required for applicable ships engaged on international voyages, including:

• passenger ships,

• cargo ships of 500 gross tonnage and above,

• mobile offshore drilling units and similar rigs when applicable.

Examples of ISS Certificate in a sentence

• Within seven (7) days of the delivery date, the ISS Certificate in respect of the vessel shall be provided together with other statutory certificates.

• Ships verified to be in compliance with the ISPS Code are issued with an International Ship Security Certificate (ISS Certificate).

• Port State Control inspections are limited to verifying that a valid ISS Certificate is carried on board.

• When no valid ISS Certificate is produced upon request, control measures may be taken against the ship.

• An Interim ISS Certificate may be issued following a change of ship ownership or management.

What is an Interim ISS Certificate?

An Interim ISS Certificate is a temporary certificate issued when:

• a new ship is delivered,

• a ship changes flag,

• a ship changes company, owner or manager.

It allows the ship to operate for a limited period while a full security verification is arranged.

What happens if a ship does not have a valid ISS Certificate?

If a ship cannot produce a valid ISS Certificate, or if there are clear grounds to believe that the ship does not comply with the ISPS Code:

• the ship may be subjected to additional inspections,

• corrective measures may be imposed, and

• in serious cases, the ship may be delayed or denied entry into port.

Important clarification

The term “ISS Certificate” in maritime law strictly refers to the International Ship Security Certificate.

Sections such as:

• “ISS Certified professional”

• “ISS Certificate of Completion”

• training programmes, staff certification or corporate screening processes

are not related to the maritime ISS Certificate under the ISPS Code.

They refer to internal or private certification schemes and should not be confused with the International Ship Security Certificate used for ships and rigs.

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Summary

• ISS Certificate = International Ship Security Certificate

• It proves that a vessel complies with the ISPS Code.

• It is mandatory for applicable ships on international voyages.

• It is routinely checked during Port State Control inspections.

• An Interim ISS Certificate may be issued after change of owner, manager, flag or delivery of a new ship.