India implements CCTV systems onboard: Key recommendations

As explained, this measure is part of the DGS strategy to enhance maritime safety & security onboard. This is being mandated for Indian Flag Merchant vessels and foreign vessels trading in Indian Coasts under Specific Period License (SPL). However, this measure is also recommended for foreign flag vessels visiting Indian Ports. 

In this context, vessel owners/ ISM managers, in coordination with the Master shall conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify and create a design plan for CCTV system basis vessel- specific vulnerabilities and optimal camera placement, including an assessment of potential areas crucial to safety and security, including the need to be instrinsically safe for tankers in hazardous zones. 

The CCTV system shall be part of the vessels IT infrastructure and cyber risk  management procedures.

Installation of the CCTV’s should be done in a professional manner,  preferably by qualified shore technicians where the cables and installations does not jeopardize  the fire integrity of the vessel (including being intrinsically safe where required) or disturb any  critical processes or cause distractions when keeping a navigational watch or safe cargo  watches.

The equipment should be capable of being isolated in those areas where such recording  is not allowed as per local regulations or military sensitivities. Signages should be prominently  displayed in common areas to clearly inform crew members and visitors about the presence of  CCTV surveillance to avoid any potential legal concerns of privacy and data security. These  signs serve to communicate the purpose of the cameras which is to maintain a secure and  controlled environment. 

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) or system-based software to enhance the  functionality of CCTV systems is highly recommended as it can significantly improve onboard  safety and security. These technologies can enable real-time monitoring, advanced anomaly  detection, and automated alerts, ensuring quicker responses to potential incidents while  reducing the reliance on manual surveillance.

Recommended specifications and operation of CCTV systems

 The Recommended Specifications of the CCTV Cameras and associated equipment are  as specified: 

a) A minimum resolution of 1080p Full HD, a frame rate of at least 30 fps and a wide  dynamic range (WDR) capability. 

b) Where long range detection is identified during the pre-survey, the cameras should have  zoom facilities, like in areas of open decks or stern areas. 

c) On Open decks, the camera should be of IP rating of IP66 or IP67 or IP68 quality. 

d) To be preferably of a recognized marine standard and preferably type approved to  ensure performance and vibration, humidity, temperature, corrosion resistance, internet  protocol (IP) and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) requirements are met. 

e) In machinery spaces, the cameras should be able to withstand higher temperatures and  preferably have thermal detection.  f) Comply with RO Standards or IEC 62676 for Video Surveillance Systems. 

Recommended control and monitoring of CCTV systems

The Recommended Control and Monitoring stations and the Transmission Capability  of the CCTV Systems are as follows 

a) There should be at least one monitoring and control station on the Bridge or Engine room  or Cargo Control Room and in the Citadel/Safe Muster Point onboard. 

b) The monitoring station should be able to control the view of the cameras and switch  between cameras easily. 

c) The data from the CCTV should be capable of having a storage capacity of a minimum  of 14 days. 

d) The monitoring of CCTV footage (online and offline) of the Indian Flag Merchant  Vessels is restricted to the Directorate General of Shipping, Vessel, its ISM Managers  or DPA or Owners thereof. It should not be entrusted to external agencies or coastal  states/port authorities, except if authorized by this Directorate. 

e) The Vessel, its ISM Managers or DPA or Owners thereof may use this data for internal  purposes related to training and operations assessments to ensure compliance with safety  and security protocols. 

Recommended training and maintenance of CCTV systems

The Recommended Training and Maintenance procedures for the CCTV Systems are  as follows: 

a) The Master or safety officer and security officer onboard should be familiar with the  monitoring and transmission of the CCTV systems on the vessels. 

b) Crew onboard should be trained to use the system when they join onboard and during  Man overboard drills, SAR Drills and security drills. 

c) The DPA / ISM Manager should be trained to use the system when transmitted ashore  and practised during the Ship-Shore drills. 

The CCTVs should be periodically inspected by the ship staff weekly and serviced  annually onboard or by an authorised service centre. Records to be available for review during  audits and inspections.

The notice informs that any malfunctions in the equipment, including cameras, will not be considered a  deficiency during flag state inspections or port state control inspections.

For Indian-flagged  vessels calling at foreign ports, non-compliance with the Notice will not result in the issuance  of a deficiency by the port state control authority.  This is issued with the approval of the competent authority.