Shipyard security is important for protecting high-value assets and sensitive operations from theft, cyberattacks, and other threats. Did you know firms invest heavily in AI-powered surveillance and cybersecurity measures?

This guide covers everything you need to know, from the threats to prepare for and how to protect yourself against them.

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• What shipyard security is and the challenges it faces
• Industry standards and regulatory requirements
• Components of an effective shipyard security strategy
• Best practices
• FAQ

Let’s start by defining what shipyard security is.

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What is shipyard security?

Shipyard security protects shipbuilding and repair facilities from threats like theft, trespassing, cyberattacks, espionage, and sabotage. It also prevents breaches, which could expose classified projects or disrupt military operations for naval or government shipyards. 

This type of security is also a key part of overall maritime security, which includes port security, cargo protection, and anti-piracy efforts. 

Weak security at a shipyard can have ripple effects on global trade, supply chains, and national defense. That’s why today’s modern shipyards rely on a mix of physical security, surveillance, access control, and cybersecurity to protect not just assets but also their operational continuity. 

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Common threats faced in shipyard security

These days, shipyards face a variety of security challenges. These include:

• Physical threats: Shipyards are busy places with lots of equipment, materials, and people coming and going. Without strong security, there’s a risk of theft, trespassing, and vandalism. Expensive tools and ship components can go missing, and unauthorized visitors can put themselves in danger by wandering into restricted areas.
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• Cyber threats: Modern shipyards rely on digital systems for everything from tracking shipments to designing ships. That also makes them a target for hackers looking to steal sensitive information or disrupt operations. A cyberattack could lead to stolen blueprints, costly delays, or even national security risks. 
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• Insider threats: Not all risks come from outside — employees, contractors, or vendors with access to shipyard systems and facilities can also be a security concern. A disgruntled worker might steal data, or someone could accidentally click on a phishing email that compromises the whole system.

The risks we discussed above are just some of the many evolving threats shipyards may face. Thankfully, a well-planned security strategy can help — let’s take a look at some of the key components of an effective strategy below:

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Physical security measures

In most situations that require security, physical measures are always the first priority. The same applies when you need to protect shipyards. These physical security measures can include:

• Access controls: Restricting entry to authorized personnel helps prevent trespassing and theft. Measures can include keycards, biometric scanners, security checkpoints, and visitor logs.
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• Perimeter defenses: Fences, gates, and barriers are great if you want to create a physical layer of security that deters unauthorized access. For another layer, add security guards and patrol officers.
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• Surveillance systems: Smart cameras, motion sensors, aerial drones, and 24/7 monitoring help detect suspicious activity so you can mount a fast response. Cameras can also record evidence that may be helpful in investigations.

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Technological enhancements

Nowadays, technology plays a huge role in security. You can try using:

• Cybersecurity measures: Firewalls, encrypted networks, and intrusion detection systems can help you prevent hacking, data breaches, and cyberattacks.
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• AI-powered surveillance: Smart cameras with AI can analyze movement patterns to detect suspicious behavior, like unauthorized individuals loitering near restricted areas, or unusual activity after hours. 
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• Automated access controls: Biometric scanning and remote-controlled gate systems improve security since they make sure that only authorized personnel can enter restricted areas.
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• Security management software: Software like Belfry can help when it comes to streamlining security operations. It can help you track your guards and keep them accountable and make communication easier between you and your people on the ground.

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Personnel and training

A strong security team keeps a shipyard safe by watching over daily operations, enforcing security rules, and handling any threats that come up. That’s why it’s so important to make sure that every member of the team is properly trained and licensed. Plus, security risks are always changing, so ongoing training is a must. 

It’s not just security staff who need to be prepared — everyone working in the shipyard benefits from security awareness programs. When workers know how to spot and report potential risks, it helps prevent problems before they happen.

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Emergency preparedness

In a shipyard, regular risk assessments help find weak spots before they turn into real problems. 

It’s also good to have a solid crisis management plan since it can help you make sure that if something does go wrong, everyone knows what to do. In addition, routine emergency drills help give everyone a better idea of how to handle crises.

Establishing a relationship with law enforcement, the Coast Guard, and emergency services may also help response times when an issue arises.

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Shipyard security jobs and career opportunities

There are different roles when it comes to shipyard security jobs. Security officers handle patrols, check IDs at entry points, and watch over surveillance systems. Supervisors oversee teams and respond to incidents, while cybersecurity specialists protect digital systems from hacking. Some roles, like emergency response coordinators, focus on crisis planning and drills to keep the shipyard prepared.

When you’re just getting started, you can typically begin by finding work as an unarmed guard, which usually requires a high school diploma and a security guard certification. Depending on who hires you, you might also need to do some maritime security-specific training.

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Best practices for shipyard security

There are a few things you can do to improve your overall security strategy. These include:

• Create a strong security plan: One of the first and most important things you can do is to create an effective security strategy. You can do this by making a risk assessment, followed by implementing measures to address those risks. Conduct assessments regularly — your security plan should grow and change with your operations.
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• Align with maritime security efforts: Shipyards don’t operate in isolation. Although shipyards aren’t necessarily port facilities, following ISPS Code standards and ISO 28000 security guidelines can still help improve overall maritime security.
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• Learn from real-world incidents: As technology evolves, so do security risks. For example, rising drone threats have led some shipyards to invest in better monitoring technology. Keep an eye on what’s happening so you can adjust as needed.
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• Hire wisely: Security teams are the first line of defense, so hiring qualified personnel is super important. Look for security professionals with experience in maritime or industrial settings, and prioritize candidates with security certifications or specialized training.
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• Work with law enforcement: Strong partnerships with local law enforcement, the Coast Guard, and emergency responders may help improve response times and coordination during a crisis. You can also try involving these agencies in some emergency drills.

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Frequently asked questions

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How does regulatory compliance impact shipyard security measures?

Following security regulations helps shipyards stay organized, avoid fines, and keep people and equipment safe. Guidelines like the ISPS Code and ISO 28000 provide clear steps for protecting facilities from threats. 

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What are the benefits of regular security audits in shipyards?

Security audits help catch weak spots before they turn into big problems. Checking access points, surveillance systems, and cybersecurity measures regularly ensures everything is working as it should. They also give shipyards a chance to improve security plans, train staff, and keep up with new risks.

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What role does emergency preparedness play in shipyard security?

Emergencies can happen anytime, whether it’s a security breach, accident, or extreme weather. A strong plan helps shipyards respond quickly and keep disruptions to a minimum.

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How can shipyards integrate modern technology into their security systems?

New technology makes security smarter — and more efficient. For example, AI-enhanced surveillance cameras can spot unusual activity (that humans might not) using pattern recognition. Shipyards can also use systems like Belfry, which helps to streamline security operations and helps with everything from managing guards to doing administrative work.

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How Belfry can help you streamline your shipyard security operations

Shipyard security comes with unique challenges that require some extra planning to overcome. Thankfully, with the right security personnel, it can be easier to manage the risks and threats shipyards face daily. And if you need some help with managing your security team, that’s where Belfry can help.
Belfry is an all-in-one security management platform that helps reduce the admin work you need to do while making it easier to manage your team.

Here’s how: 

• Automated scheduling: Does the site need round-the-clock security? Or does it only need security at night? Either way, Belfry’s automated scheduling feature allows you to assign guards based on the site’s needs and your guards’ training and certifications.
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• Guard accountability: Keep an eye on your guards using the GPS tracking feature, which allows you to check if they’re adhering to their post orders. Geofencing alerts tell you if they leave their designated areas.
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• Easier communication: Belfry’s mobile app has an instant messaging feature that makes it easy for you to get in touch with your guards and dispatchers.
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• Simplified reporting: Guards can submit their incident reports right from the Belfry mobile app, with detailed forms and evidence attachments.
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• Accurate payroll: Belfry automates time and attendance tracking (including overtime) to ensure accurate payroll — and so you can spend less time doing it all yourself.

Ready to see how Belfry can help keep shipyards secure? Schedule a free demo today.