GLOBAL MARITIME SECURITY

What price Global Maritime Security?
Maritime Security is a subject that is becoming increasingly important in today’s world and there is particular focus on the Asia/Pacific area as ever larger and faster ships are using an expanding network of mainline and feeder ports, all of which have costly facilities needing protection.

At the same time, we are being made aware of the global threat posed by terrorism. Since the dreadful events of 11 September 2001, organisations large and small are having to address their security needs with new vigour. The question of how best to protect infrastructures, facilities and personnel becomes ever more critical, with Asia’s ports facing perhaps the biggest challenge of all. Putting the necessary new security systems into place and operating them effectively and successfully is best left to experts in the field, and here Hansard Security Services come to the fore.

Taking legislation on board
Perfectly tailored maritime security services are considered a major component of the group services offered by Hansard. They are totally "on board" with all current legislation and fully equipped to supply services that comply with the International Ship and Port Facility Code (ISPS Code), created by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). As readers will be aware, all ships and port facilities concerned with international voyages will have to comply with this code by July 2004, so consulting a company such as Hansard Security Services is of necessary importance at this time.

Hansard’s security team has worldwide experience and credentials. They can help clients to develop security and crisis management procedures that comply with all the new regulations. As a major consultancy its speciality is strategic assessment and advice in the first instance by analysing vulnerability, assisting with port and facility threat assessment and providing crisis management, planning and response systems.

Following this, Hansard can implement security for ports and terminals, as well as shipping. It also provides contingency planning, effective counter-terrorist measures and development of personnel where necessary, through appropriate training programmes.

Hansard Security Systems are experts in people and situation management, using all the latest security technology. Their senior management draws on both government and commercial sector expertise, so services are always individually designed for each client, as well as being recognized as cost-effective and good value for money. With Hansard Security Systems on side, you need never lose sleep; strict client confidentiality is always a priority and they operate on a 24x7 basis, always on call, worldwide.

Networking across the seas
The Asia/Pacific region can only benefit from Hansard’s global client-base, whose security systems have been tried and tested in countries from Australia to Thailand, Estonia to the Ivory Coast, for example, and for a range of national and multi-national companies.

HSS security reviews cover local conditions and provide risk assessment and a threat probability matrix; their services include focusing on specific problem areas, installing systems and designing operating manuals. As a team, Hansard are dedicated to introducing best practice into the company procedure and their advice and recommendations on deploying resources, whether human or technological, inspire confidence in their clients. Theirs is a "safety-first" attitude.

Clients who place their trust in HSS are rewarded with individually-tailored security services which then leave them free to concentrate on the core concerns of their business.

Following thorough security risk analysis, the Hansard team will recommend security plans to cover every eventuality, including contingency planning, counter terrorist measures and crisis management. They prioritise the development of timely procedures, and also focus on the training and deployment of security personnel, with programmes devised specifically for each client profile.

All hands on deck
Many organisations need help in restructuring their facilities to support increased logistical needs and to cope with changing rules, regulations and responsibilities. For each client, at home or abroad, Hansard Security Services examines existing security arrangements and makes new recommendations for alterations and improvements. For clients with branches or offices worldwide, Hansard can ensure
that their response system is the same wherever facilities or personnel are located.

HSS are always willing to set up workshops and training programmes relating to crisis response. These programmes currently operate at board and senior management levels, and can be adapted to client needs. There is also an option on media training, so that ready responses are to hand when dealing with the media in crisis situations.

However, with business continuity as a prime concern, HSS works closely with all clients to ensure that maintenance of normal functions is built into their security programme wherever possible.

If electronic counter-surveillance is required, Hansard Security Services are experienced in providing this throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Their flexible approach ensures that the services provided precisely fit the client’s needs, either on a contract or ad. hoc. basis.

HSS also supplies manned guarding services, using only the highest calibre trained staff. (These are provided for special events or AGMs, for example.) Existing clients include blue-chip companies in the financial, industrial, leisure, oil and pharmaceutical industries.

Discreet and courteous handling of all situations comes as standard with an HSS contract. In addition, clients worldwide always have access to Hansard management teams on a day-to-day basis where necessary. Comprehensive security services such as those offered by Hansard are of the highest quality overall; HSS is concerned with making the world - and the Asia/Pacific region in particular - a safer place in which to live and work.