Guidance on Rules

ISO/PAS 28007-1:2015

The presence of armed personnel aboard a merchant vessel must be governed by clear, lawful and well-understood rules. Black Pearl Maritime Security Management Limited operates under a documented set of Rules for the Use of Force (RUF) that every operator carries, understands and signs up to before deployment. These rules reflect the guidance of ISO/PAS 28007-1:2015, the principles of the relevant industry best management practice and the requirements of applicable national and international law.

Our overriding principle is that force is a last resort. The purpose of an armed security team is deterrence and protection, not confrontation. Where force does become necessary, it must always be reasonable, necessary and proportionate to the threat faced, and it must cease the moment the threat is neutralised.

The graduated response

Black Pearl trains its teams to apply a structured, escalating response that gives an approaching vessel every opportunity to break off before any force is contemplated. The continuum typically progresses through clearly defined stages:

Early detection, identification and continuous observation of the suspect craft;
Visible deterrence through the obvious presence of an organised security team;
Audible and visual warnings to deter approach;
Warning measures consistent with the rules and the law;
Proportionate use of force, only as a final option, strictly in defence of life.

Each stage is intended to de-escalate. The clear majority of approaches are broken off long before the upper end of the continuum is ever reached.

Command, control and the master's authority

The master of the vessel retains overall command and authority at all times. This principle is fundamental and non-negotiable: the security team works in support of the master, not in place of the master. Our team leader maintains continuous liaison with the master and the bridge, agreeing actions and ensuring that the ship's command is fully informed throughout any approach or incident.

Within the team, a single team leader exercises command and control over the deployment of personnel and any decision to escalate. This clear chain of command prevents confusion under pressure and ensures that every action is deliberate, authorised and accountable.

Rules of engagement and the right of self-defence

Our rules are built on the inherent right of individuals to defend themselves and others against an imminent threat to life. Force may only ever be used in self-defence or the defence of others, and only to the minimum extent necessary. Operators are trained to assess hostile intent and hostile act carefully, and never to act pre-emptively beyond what the law permits.

Weapons handling and accountability

Strict discipline governs the handling, carriage and condition of all firearms aboard. Weapons are accounted for at all times, with ammunition issued, recorded and reconciled under controlled procedures. Operators follow standing safe-handling drills, and weapons are secured in approved storage whenever they are not required for an active watch.

Incident reporting

Any incident, from a suspicious approach to an actual use of force, is documented fully and promptly. Reports record the sequence of events, the decisions taken, the communications with the master and the rationale for any escalation. These reports are provided to the master, to the company and, where required, to flag-state and other competent authorities. Thorough, honest reporting underpins both legal accountability and the continuous improvement of our procedures.

Through clear rules, a disciplined graduated response and unwavering respect for the master's authority, Black Pearl ensures that armed protection is delivered lawfully, proportionately and with complete accountability.

Guidance on Rules