Maritime safety and port security have become more pressing issues in NW Europe due to a series of factors. These include post 9/11concerns about the threat of terrorism and illegal immigrants putting themselves at serious risk of injury or death by stowing away. The objective of the 11.4 M euro EPOS project is to develop a shared technology infrastructure for the control and surveillance of port areas. This will involve creating a local data transmission network, including cameras and digital servers, to monitor both security and safety at the ports of lead partner Oostend and Calais. The surveillance efforts will be supported by heat detection technology designed to spot intruders who have gained entry to port facilities by concealing themselves in freight vehicles. Better trans-national co-operation between the port authorities and the UK’s immigration authorities will also help prevent the entry of illegal immigrants and terrorist attacks. The partners’ improved knowledge of maritime safety and security systems will then be disseminated to other NW European ports.