The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code is a set of security requirements established to ensure the safety and security of ships, ports, terminals, carriers, seafarers, and cargo in order to prevent maritime security threats and incidents. It became effective in 2004 as an amendment to the SOLAS (Security of Life at Sea) convention, specifically under chapter head IX-2. The ISPS Code mandates the appointment of security officers and personnel for ships, port facilities, and shipping companies. It is divided into two parts: Part A contains the mandatory requirements, while Part B provides recommended guidelines for meeting the requirements outlined in Part A. The code applies to various types of ships operating in international waters, including passenger ships, cargo ships, high-speed vessels, and mobile offshore drilling units, as well as port facilities serving these vessels.