Security Level (MARSEC)

A security level is the qualified degree of risk that a security incident will be attempted or occur, expressed as one of three tiers under the ISPS Code. ISPS Code Part A Section 2.1.9 to 2.1.11 defines level 1 (normal, minimum measures at all times), level 2 (heightened, additional measures for a period), and level 3 (exceptional, further specific measures when an incident is probable or imminent). SOLAS Chapter XI-2 Regulation 3 gives Contracting Governments the duty to set levels for ships and facilities. MARSEC is the US name for the same three-tier system under the MTSA.