Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) Monitoring FAQs

On this page, you’ll find clear answers to frequently asked questions about our Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) monitoring service. Covering topics such as system configuration, crew training, 24/7 response protocols, and compliance with maritime regulations, this resource is designed for ship operators, CSOs, and maritime security professionals. Whether you’re looking to understand how SSAS alerts are handled or want to improve your vessel’s emergency readiness, this Q&A will help clarify how Castor Vali delivers reliable, compliant, and expert maritime security support.

1. How is the SSAS system configured for Castor Vali monitoring?

• The Castor Vali monitoring email address (ssas@castorvali.com) is programmed as the primary alert recipient within the SSAS unit.
• Alert routing is tested to confirm proper delivery to Castor Vali operations centres.
• Contact details and escalation pathways are configured according to client preferences and industry best practices.

2. How does Castor Vali verify the SSAS system is functioning properly?

• A full end-to-end test is conducted, including live alert drills.
• Verification ensures that alerts from all designated vessels trigger immediate responses by the Castor Vali operations centres.

3. What training and documentation do Castor Vali provide to vessel crews?

• Crew members are trained on how and when to activate the SSAS.
• Emergency procedures are integrated into the vessel’s Ship Security Plan (SSP).
• Castor Vali supplies ongoing support and refresher guidance as needed.

4. What happens after the onboarding process is complete?

• Once onboarded, the vessel is monitored 24/7 by Castor Vali’s experienced staff in the operation centres, ensuring immediate action is taken in the event of an alert.

5. How is the SSAS alert activated?

• The vessel’s SSAS (Ship Security Alert System) is discreetly triggered by pressing a physical SOS button onboard.
• The system silently transmits a covert distress signal to Castor Vali operations centres without alerting any potential onboard threats.

6. Who responds to the alert? 

• Trained maritime security professionals at the Castor Vali operations centres immediately assess the situation.
• The response team coordinates with:
  • Flag state authorities
  • Coastal or port state coast guards
  • The vessel’s Designated Person Ashore (DPA)

7. What are the risks when CSOs manage SSAS alerts for multiple vessels?

Company Security Officers (CSOs) often handle multiple responsibilities across several ships. As a result:

• Critical alerts may be overlooked or delayed due to competing priorities.
• The CSO may be off-duty, in transit, or otherwise unavailable when an alert is triggered.
• This can lead to slow response times in high-risk situations, putting crew and vessel safety at risk.

8. What’s the risk of not having 24/7 SSAS monitoring?

Security threats can occur at any time, day or night. Without dedicated, round-the-clock monitoring, alerts may go unnoticed for crucial minutes. SSAS alerts require immediate action to ensure safety and compliance. Any delay can result in:

• Slower emergency response
• Missed coordination with maritime authorities
• Increased exposure to threats like piracy or unauthorised boarding

9. How can response delays impact crew safety?

• A delayed or missed response to an SSAS alert can jeopardise the safety of the crew and vessel, especially during security threats such as piracy, armed boarding, or hijacking.
• Inadequate or delayed responses can result in non-compliance with SOLAS Chapter XI-2 and the ISPS Code, exposing the vessel and company to legal and regulatory consequences.

10. How does Castor Vali mitigate these risks?

• Castor Vali provides a dedicated, professional 24/7 response service, ensuring that every SSAS activation is:
  • Immediately acknowledged
  • Expertly managed
  • Escalated appropriately
  • Fully compliant with international maritime security regulations

< Back to Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) Monitoring