On-board practice in assessing maritime security measures on a ship was a key feature of a recent workshop which took place in Montevideo, Uruguay (8-11 August). Some 45 participants, representing the national Administration and designated authority for maritime security, ship companies, recognized security organizations and ship security officers. The workshop was designed to equip participants with the necessary skill and knowledge to assess the effectiveness of International ship and Port Security (ISPS) Code implementation on board a ship, using as a basis IMO guidance on voluntary self-assessment by administration and for ship security. The workshop was organized by IMO in collaboration with the Designated Authority of Uruguay (Prefectura Nacional Naval). IMO was represented by Javier Yasnikouski and a team of consultants.