Santos Passenger Terminal renews international security certification

The passenger terminal in Santos is already planning for the Brazilian cruise season, which runs from October this year through April 2027 (Vanessa Rodrigues/AT)

The Giusfredo Santini Passenger Terminal, operated by Concais at the Port of Santos, has renewed its international security certification. The certification is a mandatory requirement for port facilities receiving vessels engaged in international maritime trade. Valid for five years, it is issued by the National Commission for Public Security at Ports, Terminals and Waterways (Conportos), which is linked to the Ministry of Justice and Public Security.

“The certification reinforces the confidence of everyone who uses the terminal. Passengers, workers, crew members, shipowners and public authorities can rely on a facility that is fully prepared to prevent risks, control access, respond rapidly to incidents and ensure that operations are conducted in accordance with the highest international security standards, providing a safer and more organized environment”, said Matheus Paixão, Security Manager at ABA Infra Group, to which the terminal belongs.

The certification was renewed earlier this month without reservations or “with no non-conformities”, according to the applicable technical terminology.

“In practice, this means that all audited requirements fully complied with the established standards, with no corrective actions required. This result demonstrates that our security processes are well established, fully integrated and operating efficiently, reflecting the commitment of both management and the entire team to a strong security culture”, Paixão explained.

The certification is maintained through audits conducted by Conportos, in addition to ongoing inspections and unannounced verification activities carried out by the State Commission for Public Security at Ports, Terminals and Waterways of São Paulo (Cesportos/SP) to ensure the terminal’s continuous compliance.

“The audit is highly rigorous and evaluates everything from the documentation related to the Risk Assessment Study (EAR) and the Port Facility Security Plan (PSP).”

The assessment then focuses on the practical implementation of the security measures described in those documents.

“Access control, electronic surveillance, non-intrusive inspection equipment, communication systems, operational procedures, emergency response, restricted-area protection, training, drills, documentary records and staff qualifications are all verified. In addition to reviewing documentation, the auditors also observe operational activities in the field,” the manager detailed.

Preparation, however, is not limited to the days preceding the audit.

“In port security, there is no possibility of ‘rehearsing’ for an assessment. Either the security culture is embedded in the terminal’s daily operations, or weaknesses will inevitably be identified during the audit”, he said.

According to the security manager, the work begins with the establishment of the Organizational Element (the internal security unit), approved by Cesportos/SP, along with teams that receive continuous training to perform their duties.

“Maintaining the certification depends on continuous work involving training, inspections, internal audits, procedure updates, system testing and daily monitoring of security controls”, he said.

The protocols, required under the ISPS Code, are designed to prevent and mitigate risks related to unauthorized access to port facilities, unlawful acts against ships and port facilities, the introduction of prohibited items, theft, sabotage, narcotics, operational interference and other threats that could compromise the safety of navigation, people and critical infrastructure.

“In risk situations, specific contingency plans are activated to define responsibilities, communication flows and immediate measures to protect lives, safeguard the facilities and ensure operational continuity”, Paixão said.

The Security Manager noted that the outcome reflects the maturity of the terminal’s risk management system.

“It demonstrates an organization that is prepared to identify vulnerabilities, anticipate threats and respond quickly and in a coordinated manner to any situation that could compromise operational security”, he stated.

No interruption

Despite the future relocation of Concais from Outeirinhos to Valongo, ABA Infra Group Security Manager Matheus Paixão emphasized that this does not mean investments will be suspended.

“Concais continues to make ongoing investments in equipment, systems and operational improvements, always in alignment with and duly communicated to the Port Authority. Security is a non-negotiable value for the terminal. Therefore, while preserving major infrastructure investments for the future site, we continue strengthening the technological and operational resources that ensure the protection of passengers, workers, crew members and operations, while also contributing to the comfort and efficiency of current operations”, he said.

Looking ahead to the next cruise season, Paixão noted that preparations include operational planning, staff training, equipment maintenance and coordination with shipowners and public authorities.

“We understand that generating demand and deciding to include Santos in cruise itineraries are commercial decisions made by the shipowners. Concais’ mission is to ensure that the terminal is never an obstacle to that decision. Whenever a shipowner chooses to operate at the Port of Santos, they will find a terminal that is fully prepared to handle vessels with safety, efficiency, operational capacity and comfort for passengers, crew members and workers.”