March 10, 2005 • ISSUE 5 / VOLUME 1

Star assists harbor with security plans

Agency helps businesses meet new guidelines

Star Protection Agency provides accredited training to employees whose companies must comply with security guidelines under the Maritime Transportation Security Act.

Star Protection Agency is the industry leader in Hawaii when it comes to accredited security training. Recently, Star's expertise has been utilized by several businesses in meeting their requirements for the Maritime Transportation Security Act.

"In 2002, the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) went into effect, requiring security plans and procedures for properties and businesses along major waterways and harbors in the United States, " Star Protection Agency Security Director Robin Medeiros said. "Here in Hawaii, there are currently 63 facilities that are required to meet this directive. This has affected a great number of businesses and property owners along Honolulu Harbor, as well as in other locations."

Uniformed officers from Star Protection Agency take pride in helping fellow professionals become certified.

Under the guidelines of the Maritime Security Act (MARSEC) and administered by the United States Coast Guard, (all harbor and port facilities are required to submit and implement comprehensive security plans to protect against terrorist attacks) commercial port facility owners and operators are required to have a Facility Security Plan on file with the Coast Guard. The Facility Security Plan details training required of personnel at the site, security measures in place and standard operating procedures as they relate to the security of the site.

"Star Protection Agency has successfully helped these businesses and facilities meet their MARSEC requirements in different ways," Medeiros explained. "Star provides MARSEC qualifying training to employees who are required to have initial training and ongoing refresher seminars. We also provide consultation on the specifics of your facility or vessel security plan, and we offer uniformed security officers who are trained in MARSEC security procedures to help bring a facility's security plan into compliance."

Star Protection Agency, for example, assisted Airport Group International in training their staff in maritime security. This was the first facility in the Coast Guard's District 14 (which covers the Hawaiian Islands, Guam and American Samoa) to become fully compliant with the MTSA.

For years, the world has recognized a need for competent professionals who can effectively manage complex security issues that threaten people and the assets of corporations, governments, and public and private institutions. As the emphasis on protecting people, property and information increases, the demand for professional managers has strengthened. To meet these needs, the ASIS International administers the Certified Protection Professional (CPP) program.

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Nearly 10,000 security professionals have earned the designation of CPP. This group of professionals has demonstrated its competency in the areas of security solutions and best-business practices through an intensive qualification and testing program. As a result, these men and women have been awarded the coveted designation of CPP and are recognized as proven leaders in their profession.

"Star Protection Agency has the largest number of CPP's within its ranks in the State of Hawai'i" Medeiros points out. "Through our ongoing training programs, we take pride in being an active supporter in assisting fellow professionals to qualify for this prestigious designation."

Star's award-winning training programs can help any business maintain the best practices of the security industry, reduce security liability and maintain compliance with MARSEC and other requirements, he added. Star also provides training in First Aid/CPR/AED certifications, Workplace Violence Awareness, Security in the Workplace and other customized training topics.