NCJ Number
105214
Date Published
1986
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article considers why shipowners do not undertake even minimal security measures for their vessels, suggests some security precautions in port, and discusses shipowner insurance coverage for terrorist attacks.
Abstract
Cargo ship crews of 25 years ago consisted of 50-60 personnel. Today's vessel uses 25 crewmen or less. This reduced crew hampers ship surveillance, night watch, and gangway watch. Shipowners are reluctant to pay a small crew overtime for security duties. Efforts to save money also explain why shipowners seldom employ armed security guards to protect their ships in those parts of the world where they are vulnerable. Such security might be provided at the charterers' expense, since it is the charterers' cargo being protected. Ship security in port could be enhanced by arriving at first light rather than after dark, by remaining in deep water clear of the coast at night, and by using a radar scanner to detect the approach of other vessels. Insurance coverage can protect a shipowner from losses due to terrorist incidents, including any extortion payments. Any loss of money due to a vessel's not being used due to terrorist hijacking or damage can also be covered. The coverage of a sample insurance policy designed to address terrorist incidents is outlined.