Port security work starts

By PAM GRAHAM

Officials charged with ensuring port security is up to new international standards will soon start risk-assessments at ports.

They also expect a Maritime Safety Bill, putting international security rules into effect, to be enacted by the end of the year.

Customs is meanwhile working on plans to use mobile technology to x-ray containers identified as risky at ports.

Countries have until July 1 next year to comply with International Maritime Organisation security rules developed after the September 11 terrorist attacks in the US.

In New Zealand, the rules cut across the work of up to 14 government agencies, requiring co-ordination among Government officials and between the Government and industry.

The Maritime Safety Authority has been appointed lead agency and a National Port and Ship Security Committee of officials has been set up. It will work with an industry committee that includes worker representatives.

Authority deputy director Tony Martin said a security audit of ports was about to begin.

"It may be that we can do some ports initially and get some guidelines for everyone else. Over the next two to three months we hope to have these well under way for all the ports."


The Budget included money for Customs to x-ray more containers. The service plans to buy mobile trucks and to x-ray only cargo identified as a potential risk through a system involving sniffer dogs, physical inspection and a risk-analysis information system.

The new machines are expected to be in service by early next year.