The Pacific L. A. Marine Terminal LLC Pier 400, Berth 408 Project will have state-of-the-art security features and meet all regulations, both Federal and State. Since the Pier 400, Berth 408 Project is new construction, it does not have the obstacles experienced by existing locations, such as a lack of infrastructure or require modification of existing operating systems. The facility will incorporate security features found on new construction projects and will meet current industry security standards, as well as government security regulations.
The Pier 400, Berth 408 Project is designed to meet international, federal, state and local security requirements. The US Coast Guard is the primary regulatory authority over the security design and operational parameters of Liquid Bulk Terminals. The Marine Transportation Security Act of 2002, contains the legislative requirements for all marine facilities within the United States. The regulations found in 33 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 105 are the implementing rules and came into full force on 1 July 2004. This comprehensive set of regulations also implements the United States compliance measures with the International Ship and Port Facility Code that was adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a subdivision of the United Nations.
In addition to federal requirements, the Pier 400, Berth 408 Project must comply with regulations of the California State Lands Commission (CSLC). The CSLC developed regulations to protect the state and surrounding communities from any acts of violence or terrorism shortly after the incidents of September 11, 2001. The state immediately implemented emergency regulations and the CSLC appointed a Technical Advisory Group to assist them in developing a comprehensive set of standards.
The Port of Los Angeles also has oversight of operations and security measures within the boundaries of the Port. The Port has a Director of Homeland Security and a full staff of Port Police who ensure secure activities at all times.
United States Coast Guard Regulations: The United States Coast Guard (Coast Guard) regulations require a complete Facility Security Assessment (FSA) by the owner. The Coast Guard regulations are very specific as to the methodology, format and areas of vulnerability that must be addressed. The FSA will be submitted to the Coast Guard for review and approval.
Every aspect of the design and operation of the facility is examined using the methodology provided by the Coast Guard. The FSA has been performed by a US Coast Guard organization. Certified upon completion & approval of the FSA, the facility prepares a Facility Security Plan (FSP). The Pier 400, Berth 408's FDS has been submitted and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. The FSP contains all actions necessary to secure the facility at the various Maritime Security levels established by the Coast Guard. The FSP contains the policies and procedures implemented at the Terminal to prevent unauthorized access and illegal activities.
The federally mandated FSP covers all security operations at the terminal, particularly the vessel to terminal interface. The FSP covers assignment of a Facility Security Officer, duties and responsibilities of personnel, training, drills, exercises, maritime security levels, vessel to terminal interface, documentation and record keeping, access control, restricted areas, cargo control, ship stores and bunkering, area monitoring, and annual audits. Once the FSP is approved, the facility will be fully inspected by Coast Guard personnel to ensure full compliance prior to being placed into operation.
California State Lands Commission Regulations: CSLC regulates all Marine Oil Terminals in the state for safety and security purposes. The CSLC published regulations in 2003 requiring marine oil terminals to have specific security equipment and meet certain security operational parameters. The regulations cover the appointment and duties of a Marine Terminal Security Officer, fencing, access control, parking areas, lighting, restricted areas, identification of employees, contractors and visitors, keys and locking devices, communications, surveillance and training. After their review and approval of the FSP, CSLC inspectors will inspect the facility prior to operation. The Security Plan for Pier 400, Berth 408 has been submitted and approved by the CSLC.
Security Systems: The Pier 400, Berth 408 Project will be completely fenced using industry standards for design, sizing and installation. Once enclosed, an automated access control system will be utilized to prevent unauthorized access to the terminal or the tank farm. Access to the facility will be strictly controlled to those who must have access to the vessel or for Terminal operational purposes. The access control system also provides benefits so that more than a single location and/or individual will be capable of monitoring access to the facilities. Access points to the facilities are kept to a minimum.
The Pier 400, Berth 408 Project will use video surveillance to monitor access control, operational areas and surrounding fence and water boundaries of the terminal. A centrally staffed security center will be continuously monitoring the video system. The system will be capable of monitoring and recording suspicious actions, illicit activities and routine access by authorized personnel.
The facility will meet the lighting requirements of both the Coast Guard and CSLC. The CSLC specifies that lighting illuminate the terminal, waterfront and the dock areas to one foot candle at one meter above the ground. This lighting will provide the security personnel and camera systems the opportunity to visually observe all critical areas of the facility day or night.
All personnel working at the facility will undergo training as specified in the regulations and as determined by the FSP. Proper training is the most significant element of security. All the elements of security are ultimately implemented by the persons working at the Pier 400, Berth 408 Project. Each person must know and understand their role in security. All training at the Pier 400, Berth 408 Project will be implemented by security specialists intimately knowledgeable in proper security measures. Terminal employees will be required to undergo a security background check to reduce the potential for security incidents.
The terminal and security personnel will be trained in security awareness and security duties. In addition, the Facility Security Officer will be required to attend an extensive training program. Guards and employees must know the proper reporting of breeches of security or potential security incidents. The knowledge of criminal methods of operation indicates that potential security breeches are most often carefully planned. Terminal personnel must be vigilant and report suspicious activities in order to assist the authorities in preventing attacks. The federal, state and local authorities maintain the primary role of providing police services and Coast Guard services, as with any other business in the Port of Los Angeles.
The terminal owners will continue to participate in the Los Angeles/Long Beach Port Security Committee, which addresses security concerns within the Port and identifies networks to support security measures. This combination of law enforcement and maritime industry representatives are moving forward with numerous modifications and changes to improve waterfront security.
Security Sensitive Information: All information (Maritime and Facility Security Plans) developed and actions to be taken in these processes are considered Security Sensitive Information. Security Sensitive Information is regulated by 49 CFR 1520 and must be protected from disclosure according to the rules and must be disclosed to only those officials with a “need to know” the specific information.
