Vessel Security Officer (VSO) Course : Safety Management Systems, LLC

Vessel Security Officer (VSO)

In association with Hudson Trident Maritime Security Services, SMS offers a VSO (also known as SSO) training course.

Overview: The Vessel Security Officer (VSO) course is a 1.5-day course, fully approved by DNV on behalf of the USCG National Maritime Center, which meets all International and Domestic requirements for VSO/SSO training. These requirements include: Regulations 13.1 (Part B) and 13.2 (Part A & B) of the ISPS Code; all training requirements contained in 33 CFR 104.215; and all requirements for issuance of the required Coast Guard-issued credential with a Vessel Security Officer endorsement in accordance with the ship security officer requirements of Regulation VI/5 of the STCW.

Course Objectives: Upon completion of Vessel Security Officer (VSO) course, the student will be able to:

Understand the requirements for a ship or port assessment
Initiate, direct and evaluate the ship or port security plan
Manage and monitor the ship or port security systems
Ensure that the proper training and evaluation is carried out for all personnel involved in security matters
Implement and maintain the vessel security plan
Train, direct and motivate ship or port personnel involved in security

Course Modules consist of:

Maritime Security Policy & the ISPS Code
Security Responsibilities
Vessel Security Assessments
Vessel Security Plans
The Threat
Security Equipment
On-board Security Procedures & Security Levels
Security Training, Drills & Exercises
Security Administration & Sensitive Security Material

Satisfactory completion of this course consists of attendance of all modules, passing a written examination at the completion of the final module, and demonstrating abilities to conduct room, baggage, and personnel searches. Once satisfactory completion is demonstrated, a certificate issued by Hudson Trident Maritime Security Services will be issued to the attendee.

Prerequisites and CFR References: To qualify for a VSO endorsement, a person must be at least 18 years of age, able to speak and understand the English language as would be relevant to the duties of a VSO, hold any valid Coast Guard issued credential under the regulations specified in 46 CFR Subchapter, successfully complete a Coast Guard-accepted VSO course, Sea Service. Fulfill ONE of the following:

Have approved sea service of not less than 12 months on any vessel subject to § 104.105 of this part, credited in accordance with 46 CFR 10.205(e), 10.211, and/or 10.213; or
Have approved sea service of not less than 90 days on any vessel subject to § 104.105 of this part, credited in accordance with 46 CFR 10.205(b), 10.211, and/or 10.213, and have knowledge of vessel operations.

Retraining: There are currently no domestic requirements imposing refresher training for VSO.

Location: Lafayette, LA

Date: Call for dates

To register, click the "Register Now!" button on the left. Questions? Contact us at training@acadian.com.

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