ENTERPRISE SECURITY| | 9November - 2021and regulatory requirements. In some ports or with some shipping lines, not every passenger is even required to be screened. The Port of Southampton does operate a full screening service for all passengers and crew. On a quiet (non-cruise) day, the port only requires less number of staff to provide the mandated level of security (less than 15). On busy days, the port requires over 400 security staff to operate and remain compliant. This is further complicated by seasonal variations. The month of February may see as little as six or seven cruise ships, whereas May or August might each see 60-70. Southampton currently has four designated world-class Cruise Terminals. One is purpose-built and the others are converted into buildings. There is also the capacity to build an additional two temporary terminals, meaning that the port can deliver six turn-around cruises in a day. When these terminals are not being used for cruise operations, they can be used for other purposes, and there is no requirement for screening, and many others .All of these factors bring with them significant challenges. Cruise terminals need to be swept and secured before a ship's arrival. They then need to be staffed with trained security personnel, who are prepared to work irregular hours at short notice. Maintaining hundreds of full-time staff is simply not required. Therefore, the operation is heavily reliant on a third-party security contractor to recruit, train, and provide this staff for the cruise operation. National security companies have the ability to draw on large pools of staff and deliver this service; however, there is always a risk associated with contracting security as any compliance risk remains with the port, and any poor performance or service delivery will be viewed negatively by passengers or cruise lines.There are no simple answers to many of these issues; however, communications are, as always, the key. Dialogue with customers, a pro-active and professional relationship with regulators, and a partnership with sub-contracted security staff will always pay huge dividends.The expansion of the industry, coupled with consumer demand, will always be the main driving force. However, the industry must always ensure that the safety and security of passengers and crew remain the primary concern. Terrorist related activity around the world is always evolving. The maritime industry, in particular, the cruise sector, must remain alert to this threat, and port/ship security must continue to keep pace with it. The industry must be seen as being security conscious, fully compliant, and constantly challenge the quality of its own security delivery to prevent it from becoming a target. ES
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