IMO sets conditions for employment of private guards on board ships

(BRUSSELS2) Faced with the proliferation of private agencies of all kinds and the difficulties posed to shipowners and shipping companies alike, the International Maritime Organization adopted, on 20 May last, guidelines on the employment of private guards on board merchant ships.

The use of armed personnel from private companies on board ships must not " not be considered as an alternative (allowing to) deprive oneself of applying the BMPs - Best Management Practices - explains the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The IMO also takes it for granted that these recommendations are not intended to institutionalize or endorse the use of private personnel and do not resolve legal issues - therefore do not provide a basis for settling various issues. like responsibility...

Under condition

Place armed guards on board “should only be considered after a risk assessment ". And it's important to involve the captain in the decision-making process. This IMO guide thus gives recommendations on how to select the private guard company, insurance coverage, command and control, management and use of weapons and ammunition on board, and rules for the use of force which must be agreed between the owner, the maritime security company and the master.

States to play

Flag States should put in place a policy, authorizing or not the use of these private guards on board ships flying their flag, and setting the conditions “, emphasizes the IMO. A working group will work to produce from September 12, 2011 produce recommendations to governments in this regard.