RTI Ltd has gained maritime security ‘certifying body’ status from the UK Accreditation Service (UKAS).
This means the company is now accredited under the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) framework to provide assurance assessment and accredited certification for the maritime security standard (ISO 28000 with ISO PAS 28007).
ISO/PAS 28007:2012 provides Guidelines for Private Maritime Security Companies (PMSC) providing privately contracted armed security personnel (PCASP) on board ships.
The standard and certification process was developed due to a growing number of maritime security companies and the safety and insurance and other implications of using armed guards on board ships. Factors when guards are employed include laws, rules for the use of force, safety concerns for seafarers, human rights and varying national regulations. ISO/PAS 28007 compliance shows that private maritime security companies can provide appropriate services on board ships to standards.
Steve Cameron, RTI Maritime Director said: “As part of RTI’s own certification efforts the company had been working with a number of private maritime security providers in the UK, Middle East and India, and these are now awarded ‘accredited certification’ status thanks to RTI’s success. We are continuing our work with the sector across the globe and are currently rolling out the ISO/PAS 28007 certification from our offices in the UK and USA.”
ISO/PAS 28007 covers a range of specialist areas that make the requirements for certifying bodies broad and inclusive of specialist preparation and expertise.
RTI has worked with the London-based Security Association for the Maritime Industry (SAMI) during the development of the standard and as it worked toward certification. Peter Cook, SAMI CEO, said: “We are extremely pleased that RTI has been confirmed as an ISO/PAS 28007 certifying body. The company has embraced maritime security and with their unique focus on quality and management standards will provide a superb route to certification and the excellence which such an approach brings.”
The companies newly certified ISO/PAS 28007:2012 with RTI are Alphard Maritime, Bowline Defense, Control Risks and Securewest who attended a presentation at RTI’s London office on Friday, May 16.
