Determining quality PMSCs is not as simple. There are several entities that offer vetting and certification to PMSCs. But there is no definitive standard as yet. That definitive standard will be ISO 28007, the certification set up by the International Standards Organization on Procedures for Private Maritime Security Companies. AdvanFort has already begun the preliminary process of meeting and documenting compliance of those standards and intends to be one of the first PMSCs to achieve that certification.

In the meantime, there are a number of professional organizations that provide a level of assurance of quality either by granting membership or through formal vetting programs. The oldest is the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers. Signatories to the ICoC document pledge to operate within the standards set forth by the agreement. AdvanFort is a signatory to the agreement.

Next up is the Security Association for the Maritime Industry (SAMI), which originally planned a two-stage certification process for members. Part one is a general review of a PMSC’s bona fides to determine its ability to operate professionally and efficiently. AdvanFort is currently undergoing that scrutiny. Part two has now been replaced by the upcoming ISO standard.

Another British organization in the mix is the Security in Complex Environments Group (SCEG), which along with SAMI has been helpful in formulating the ISO standard. While an excellent organization, it restricts membership to UK-based companies so it cannot be seen as a universal vetting resource.

Seeking to jumpstart the vetting process and to have its operations independently validated, AdvanFort reached out to the International Maritime Law Enforcement Academy (IMLEA), which reviewed the company’s recruitment; vetting and training procedures for PCASP (Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel) team members; Rules for Use of Force, and Standard Operating Procedures. IMLEA found that AdvanFort met or exceeded all international standards and issued a Certification to the company.

Additionally, AdvanFort sought membership in the Maritime Security Council, the oldest international organization dealing specifically with maritime security issues.

Founded in 1988, the MSC, which is a member-driven organization vetted AdvanFort’s procedures and operations before granting the company Executive Member status.

Beyond these organizations, several flag States are setting up various levels of vetting or certification and AdvanFort is working with several to meet those standards.

And, of course, all owners and operators who plan to retain PMSCs to provide PCASP teams for their vessels often (and should) undertake their own vetting processes. AdvanFort has undergone some of most stringent vetting by owners and operators and has been accepted in every case.

That is the hallmark of excellence and “quality” that AdvanFort pledges to continue to meet.
--William H. Watson, President, AdvanFort