Security arrangements in the Port of Turku

The international port security regulations of the IMO (International Maritime Organisation), i.e. the ISPS code (International Ship and Port Facility Security) entered into force globally on 1 July 2004. The purpose of the regulations is to enhance maritime security in ports and on vessels. It is laid down in the regulations that effective access control should be organised in port areas. Security arrangements also improve traffic and occupational safety in ports.

Passes and identity cards

A pass is always required when moving in the port area. The pass can be issued to persons permanently employed in the port or constantly using port services. The pass is usually vehicle-specific. The pass is based either on the vehicle’s license plate number, which is reported beforehand, or a remote identifier attached to the vehicle. The pass can be issued by the Port of Turku or a company authorised by it. Persons moving in the port area must be prepared to explain their presence in the area and prove their identity when asked. Identity can be proved with any identity card that carries a photograph, such as driving license, Kela card with photograph or a company identity card with photograph.

Entry to the port areas

Entry to the port areas takes place through supervised gates. Only identified vehicles are permitted to access the port areas of Viking Line, Silja Line, Linnanaukko and Länsisatama. Identification is based either on license plate numbers, which are reported beforehand, or a remote identifier attached to the vehicle.

The driver must thus make sure that a stevedoring company or transport company authorised by the Port of Turku has reported the license plate number beforehand to the port access control system.

There are separate gates for pedestrians and bicycles. Access is only allowed to persons having acquired a pass beforehand. The port control supervises all the gates 24 hours a day. If a vehicle is trying to access the port area without a proper pass, the port control must acquire a reliable account of the reason why it is entering the area. Where necessary, the port control will also check the identity of the driver and possible passengers before allowing the vehicle to access the port area.

Further information

Further information on the access control arrangements of the Port of Turku is given by:
- Port control (24-hour on-duty service), telephone +358 2 2674122
- Security Manager Timo Laitinen, telephone +358 2-2674129 or +358 50 5533129
- Office Secretary Maarit Kääriä (passes), telephone +358 2 2674127