Online Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course for Cruise Ships

MCA Approved Maritime Security Training for Crew & Staff Onboard Cruise Ships & Passenger Vessels with Designated Security Duties – IMO Model Course 3.26 - Internationally Recognised

Course Introduction

The aim of this Online Proficiency in Designated Security Duties Course, also referred to a Vessel Security Duties (VSD), is to provide those undertaking Designated Security Duties onboard Cruise Ships or Passenger Vessels with the essential education and training meeting with the Knowledge, Understanding and Proficiency (KUP) requirements, the 2010 Manila Amendments, and the requirements of Section A-VI/6, paragraphs 6 to 8 of the STCW Convention and Code, and Table A-VI/6-2, and the International Ship and Port Facility security (ISPS) Code.

About the Course

The fully online UK DfT Maritime & Coastguard Agency (STCW ISPS) Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course is a mandatory training prerequisite under STCW ISPS for members of a Ship’s Crew or Staff who report to the Ship Security Officer and have been assigned specific security responsibilities onboard the ship. The course provides learners with the requisite knowledge to meet mandated instruction requirements under STCW, the MNTB KUPs, IMO Model Course 3.26, and the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) guidelines.

Vessel-Tailored Designated Security Duties Course

The Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course has been customised exclusively for crew and staff operating onboard Cruise Ships. Additionally, we also offer tailored versions of the Designated Security Duties Course designed for the Cargo ship and superyacht Sector.

Awarding Body

The Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course is fully approved by the UK DfT Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) and holds international recognition and acceptance. It encompasses the 2010 Manila Amendments and aligns with the requirements of Section A-VI/6, paragraphs 6 to 8 of the STCW Convention and Code, as well as Table A-VI/6-2.

Course Learning Outcomes

The Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD] Course approved by the UK DfT MCA aligns with the Learning Outcomes established by the Merchant Navy Training Board [MNTB].

1. Know why ship security is important and knows the roles and responsibilities of the organisations and individuals involved.
2. Know what constitutes a security risk, threat and vulnerability to the ship, its personnel, cargo, and operations.
3. Understand the capabilities and limitations of security methods, equipment, and systems.
4. Know how to maintain the measures in a ship security plan and related requirements.
5. Maintain the effectiveness of security arrangements, procedures, and equipment at the three security levels, considering their limitations.

Course Duration

The duration for the online Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course is 6.5 to 8 hours. This time variance is allowed in order to accommodate learner’s different reading speeds. It must be noted that the minimum time requirement must be achieved along with successful completion of the official assessments to complete the course. This is a requirement of taking this MCA Approved course.

Subjects

• The Development of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.
• Understand the relevant international conventions, codes and recommendations relating to Maritime Piracy & Armed Robbery against Shipping.
• Understand the roles and responsibilities of relevant Bodies and Organisations.
• The roles and responsibilities of Contracting Governments, Designated Authorities, and Recognised Security Organisations.
• The Security Roles & Responsibilities of Crew and Port Security Personnel.
• Measures and Procedures for Maritime Security [MARSEC] Levels.
• Recognition of weapons, dangerous substances, and devices.
• Recognition of persons who may pose a threat to the security of the ship.
• Identifying techniques used to circumvent security measures.
• The handling of Sensitive Security-Related Information [SSRI] and Communications.
• Identifying security threats including Maritime Piracy & Armed Robbery against Shipping.
• Security methods, equipment & systems.
• The Ship Security Alert System [SSAS].
• The Ship Security Plan [SSP].
• The provisions for maintaining security.
• Criteria for setting Maritime Security [MARSEC] Levels under the ISPS Code.
• Actions to prevent weapons, dangerous substances and devices being brought on board.
• Guidance and measure for Anti-Piracy and Anti-Armed Robbery.
• Responses to Emergency Situations including Maritime Piracy & Armed Robbery against Shipping.
• Physical Searches & Non-Intrusive Inspections.
• Crowd Management & Control Requirements.
• Emergency Drills & Exercises.