Pre-departure Drug & Stowaway Search

Documented search of all accessible spaces before departure from a high-risk port to detect contraband, stowaways, and security threats.

In practice

Routine USCG, Australian, and UK Border Force search; ship's drug-search dog handler and PFSO coordinate. Crew confined to accommodation during search. Discovery of contraband detains vessel and exposes master to fines.

Regulatory detail & full definition

Required by the ISPS Code (Ship Security Plan) and the company SMS. Areas covered: cargo holds, accommodation, lifeboats, mast houses, void spaces, anchor locker, chain locker, fore peak, ballast tanks (where accessible without enclosed-space entry). Search team typically 4-6 crew, briefed and assigned zones. Output is the search certificate signed by Master.

Authoritative source: SOLAS Chapter XI-2 / ISPS Code ↗

Stowaway
International Ship and Port Facility Security Code

Source: ISPS Code Part A/B; IMO MSC/Circ.1334

High confidence

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Pre-departure Drug & Stowaway Search

In practice

Related

Pre-departure Drug & Stowaway Search

In practice

Related