Security

Security and Emergency Preparedness

Security

The HPA has taken a leadership position within the Halifax marine community to ensure awareness of, and action on, port security. The Port Security Committee provides a forum where both security and emergency preparedness information can be discussed, and best practices shared amongst all participants and committee members. The diverse committee membership allows the committee to draw upon its collective expertise, identify gaps in service, and work toward effective solutions. The HPA works closely with the federal government to ensure coordination with marine security initiatives.

HPA facilities are secured and monitored 24 hours a day by fencing, cameras, security onsite workforce, dedicated Halifax Regional Police members and the HPA Primary Control Center.

HPA Security, Primary Control Centre: (902) 426-2639

Marine Transportation Security Clearance

The purpose of the Marine Transportation Security Clearance (MTSC) program is to reduce the risk of security threats to the marine transportation system by conducting background checks on workers who perform certain duties or who have access to certain Restricted Areas within marine facilities. The goal of the Transport Canada Security Clearance Program is to enhance security for the marine transportation system in order to benefit the public, passengers, marine workers, and vessel operators.

Port Security & Credentialing Office

HPA’s Port Security & Credentialing Office is responsible for issuing Port of Halifax Identification cards which includes the following:

• Road Transport Pass (RTP)
• Restricted Area Pass (RAP)
• Marine Transportation Security Clearances (MTSC), as mandated by the Marine Transportation Security Regulations (MTSR).

Please note: For those applying for an MTSC Port ID Card, the MTSC application must first be completed online here and then click the link “Apply for a transportation security clearance”. You may also contact the Port Security & Credentialing Office for further instruction and to make an appointment.

Port Security & Credentialing Office hours:
Monday:  0800 - 1600 hrs
Tuesday:  0800 - 1600 hrs
Wednesday:  0800 - 1600 hrs
Thursday:  0800 - 1600 hrs
Friday:  0800 - 1600 hrs
Saturday:  Closed
Sunday:  Closed

Visits to the Credentialing Office (e.g., payment, card pick-up, etc.) are by appointment only from Monday to Thursday, and with all final appointments being at 1500 hrs (3:00 p.m.).The office is open on Fridays for calls only.

To book an appointment or if you have an inquiry, please contact the Credentialing Office Administrator at: (902) 426-1597  or by email [email protected]

Port Security & Credentialing Office Location:
Immigration Annex Building
1099 Marginal Road, Suite 145
Halifax, NS

Parking Metered parking is available on the roads surrounding the Immigration Annex Building, and Pay & Display parking is located in the adjacent parking lots. For large trucks and tractor trailers, please park in the back parking lot at the FMC Building (1096 Marginal Road).

Emergency Management

Our role at the HPA is to facilitate the safe, secure and efficient movement of trade in the Port of Halifax. We are not first responders in an emergency. However, we work closely with our many partners and with all response agencies in emergency situations. Our 24/7 Primary Control Centre (PCC) and Emergency Coordination Centre (ECC) act as  a coordination centre for relaying information and managing emergencies, incidents and other occurrences on port lands and in the Halifax Harbour. During an emergency, the HPA follows Incident Command System (ICS) control structure and procedures and exercises this system annually with the different agencies.