ABSTRACT
Seaports are a critical component of the global transportation infrastructure, but historically they have not been subject to comprehensive governmental regulation and security oversight. This chapter lays the foundation for port security management by understanding ports as critical components of the global transportation infrastructure. In the wake of the 9/11 attacks, the IMO obviously raised concerns for maritime interests that the threat of terrorism could be extended to threats against shipping at sea and in ports around the world. A 2010 analysis of the state of Florida’s seaport security prepared for the Florida Office of Drug Control provided an assessment of potential conflicts between the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 and the Florida Statute, Seaport Security Standards. Scenarios involving radiological materials dispersal or nuclear detonation and extended port operational disruptions have been identified as a major risk to the container shipping industry.
