Which STCW Maritime Security Training do you need?

Maritime security protects the lives and property of seafarers, passengers, cargo, and port facilities from threats and risks. To ensure seafarers are competent and qualified to perform their security duties and responsibilities, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has included the competencies related to security in the International Convention on Standards of Training Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers. STCW sets the minimum standards of training and certification for seafarers worldwide.

The STCW Convention includes a chapter on maritime security, which incorporates ISPS Code training. The International Ship and Port Facility Security Code is a comprehensive framework that requires all parties involved in international maritime trade to cooperate and coordinate their security efforts.

Seafarers from around the world earn their STCW Basic Safety Training Certificate at Resolve Academy in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. We also provide an accredited Ship Security Awareness Course. Contact us today for more information.

What security-related certificate do you need to work onboard the ship?

Depending on what you do aboard a ship or at a port facility, you might need one of the following STCW certificates related to maritime security:

Security Awareness (SA) is required for all seafarers who do not have designated security duties but who need to be aware of the security threats and measures on board a ship or at a port facility. To obtain a certificate from the Ship Security Awareness Course, you must complete Resolve Academy’s course that covers the basic principles of maritime security, such as recognizing security threats, reporting security incidents, and following security procedures.

Ship Personnel with Designated Security Duties (SP DSD) is required for seafarers who have specific security tasks assigned to them by the ship or port facility security plan. These tasks may include conducting security patrols, controlling access to restricted areas, operating security equipment, or responding to security emergencies.

Ship Security Officer (SSO) is required for seafarers who are designated by the shipping company as the person in charge of the security on board a ship. The SSO implements and maintains the ship security plan by managing security incidents, conducting security inspections and assessments, and coordinating with other security officers and authorities.

Also Read: STCW for Seafarers: What You Need to Know

What are the examples of the shipboard roles and certificates necessary for them?

If you work onboard a passenger ship or a cargo ship, you may need different types of maritime security certificates depending on your role. A chief officer on a passenger ship or a cargo ship will need an SSO certificate. Able seamen on a passenger ship or a cargo ship will need an SP DSD certificate because they are likely to have security tasks assigned to them by the ship security plan. Stewards on passenger  or cargo ships need an SA certificate because they are likely to interact with passengers or crew members who could pose a security threat.

The training requirements are presented in the shipping company’s training procedures. Certain companies require all ratings to have a DSD certificate and all officers to have an SSO certificate, although it is not required by the STCW convention.