Proficiency as Ship Security Officer (SSO) (A-VI/5)

Commercial yachts over 500 GT are required to be certified in the International Ship and Port Facility Security code(ISPS) and to have an officer qualified with an MCA Ship Security Officer course.

The code was introduced in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks in New York in 2001. Students learn how to establish and implement a ship security plan. The code formally requires certain actions by ship staff in terms of onboard organization, security plans, risk assessments, physical security equipment and training.

Upon completion of the course, the SSO will understand how to:

• undertake regular security inspections of the ship to ensure that appropriate security

measures are maintained

• maintain and supervise the implementation of the ship security plan, including any

amendments to the plan

• co-ordinate the security aspects of the handling of cargo and ship’s stores with other

shipboard personnel and with the relevant port facility security officers;

• propose modifications to the ship security plan

• report to the company security officer, any deficiencies and non-conformities identified

during internal audits, periodic reviews, security inspections and verifications of compliance

and the implementation of any corrective actions;

• enhance security awareness and vigilance on board

• ensure that adequate training has been provided to shipboard personnel, and the reporting

of all security incidents

Assessment Continuous in course plus an examination

Requirements Approved sea going service of not less than 12 months.