Rules for the use of force

Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40

Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - Circulars - Maritime Safety Committee - MSC.1/Circular.1405/Rev.2 – Revised Interim Guidance to Shipowners, Ship Operators, and Shipmasters on the Use of Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel on Board Ships in the High Risk Area1 – (25 May 2012) - Annex – Revised Interim Guidance to Shipowners, Ship Operators, and Shipmasters on the Use of Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel on Board Ships in the High Risk Area1 - 5 Service provision considerations - Rules for the use of force

Rules for the use of force

5.13 It is essential that all PCASP have a complete understanding of the rules for the use of force as agreed between shipowner, PMSC and master and fully comply with them. PCASP should be fully aware that their role in regard to the above is exclusively for the protection of life of persons on board and the ship from armed pirate attacks. PMSC should provide a detailed graduated response plan to a pirate attack as part of their teams' operational procedures.

5.14 PMSC should require their personnel to take all reasonable steps to avoid the use of force. If force is used, it should be in a manner consistent with applicable law. In no case should the use of force exceed what is strictly necessary and reasonable in the circumstances. Care should be taken to minimize damage and injury and preserve human life.

5.15 PMSC should require that their personnel not use firearms against persons except in self-defence or defence of others.

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