PCASP team size, composition and equipment
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - Circulars - Maritime Safety Committee - MSC.1/Circular.1443 – Interim Guidance to Private Maritime Security Companies Providing Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel on Board Ships in the High Risk Area1 – (25 May 2012) - Annex – Interim Guidance to Private Maritime Security Companies Providing Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel on Board Ships in the High Risk Area1 - 5 Deployment considerations - PCASP team size, composition and equipment

PCASP team size, composition and equipment

  5.5 The size, composition and equipment of the PCASP team should be discussed and agreed between the shipowner/ship operator and contracting PMSC. PMSC should have policies and procedures to determine the size, composition and equipment of the PCASP team, taking into account, but not limited to:

  • .1 an assessment of the ship's security needs including factors such as the estimated duration of the ship transit, the size and type of ship, its speed and freeboard, the owner's risk assessment, and the agreed duties of the team. The analysis should indicate the minimum number of persons that should form the security team, taking into account the need for continuity of protection in the event of injury and illness;

  • .2 ensuring a clear hierarchy and an appropriate skill/experience mix within the PCASP team. The team leader should be competent in ship vulnerability and risk assessments, and be able to advise on ship protection measures. It is recommended that at least one team member be qualified as team medic;

  • .3 ensuring that the PCASP is provided with suitable equipment, taking into account the voyage risk assessment and discussions between shipowner and PMSC;

  • .4 ensuring the provision of appropriate firearms and capability to be employed in accordance with the applicable flag State requirements pertaining to the type, carriage and use of firearms by PCASP. The choice of firearms should be linked to the agreed need and the rules on the use of force as agreed between the shipowner, PMSC and master;

  • .5 given the possibility of serious injury, ensuring the provision of enhanced medical equipment on board capable of managing gunshot wounds. Consideration should be given to the lack of availability of regional medical assistance; and

  • .6 ensuring that PCASP are equipped with suitable recording equipment (e.g. video cameras/digital dictaphones) to record and preserve evidence in the event of use of force, as practicable.

Parent topic: 5 Deployment considerations
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