Maritime security
Subtitle: ferry security measures have been implemented, but evaluating existing studies could further enhance security : report to the Chairman, Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives
Contributors: Caldwell, Stephen L.; United States. Congress. House. Committee on Homeland Security
Publisher: U.S. Govt. Accountability Office
Published: 2010
Place of publication: Washington, D.C.]
Language: eng
Format: [electronic resource] :
Number of pages: 39
Subjects: Rules and practice; Evaluation; Risk assessment; Ferries; Security measures; Terrorism; Prevention; United States. Coast Guard; United States
Other titles: Ferry security measures have been implemented, but evaluating existing studies could further enhance security
Description: Ferries are a vital component of the U.S. transportation system and 2008 data show that U.S. ferries carried more than 82 million passengers and over 25 million vehicles. Ferries are also potential targets for terrorism in the United States and have been terrorist targets overseas. GAO was asked to review ferry security, and this report addresses the extent to which (1) the Coast Guard, the lead federal agency for maritime security, assessed risk in accordance with the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) guidance and what risks it identified; and (2) federal agencies, ferry and facility operators, and law enforcement entities have taken actions to protect ferries and their facilities. GAO reviewed relevant requirements, analyzed 2006 through 2009 security operations data, interviewed federal and industry officials, and made observations at five domestic and one international locations with varying passenger volumes and relative risk profiles. Site visits provided information on security, but were not projectable to all ports. This is the public version of a sensitive report that GAO issued in October 2010. Information that DHS deemed sensitive has been redacted. GAO recommends that the Commandant of the Coast Guard, after evaluating the completed studies on ferry security, reassess vehicle screening requirements and take further actions to enhance security, if determined warranted. DHS concurred with our recommendations.
Notes: Title from cover screen (GAO, viewed on Dec. 7, 2010).

"December 2010."

"GAO-11-207."

Includes bibliographical references.

Mode of access: World Wide Web.

System requirements: Adobe Reader.