Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (A-VI/6-2)

Course Introduction

Please Note: This Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course has been tailored towards crew & staff of luxury Superyachts, Mega Yachts and Motor Yachts. For other vessel types, see the beginning of ‘Details’ in the tabs below for more vessel-type options. 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 yachts 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.

Course Features

- 100% Online Course & Assessments

- Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) Approved

- Fully STCW ISPS Recognised Course

- Fully Compliant with IMO Model 3.26

- This Course is IMO Whitelisted

- No Expiry on the Official Course Certificate

- Comprehensive Set of Course Notes to Keep

- Learning Confirmation Exercises Throughout

- Interactive Learning Materials

- Rapid Turnaround on Course Certification

- Flexible Learning at Your Own Pace

- Course Tailored for this Specific Sector

- Take Online or Offline (See Brochure)

Course Structure

Vessel-Tailored Designated Security Duties Course

This Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course has been tailored specifically for crew and staff, who work on board luxury Superyachts, Mega Yachts and Motor Yachts.

About This Course

The fully online, UK DfT Maritime & Coastguard Agency (STCW ISPS) Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course, is a mandatory training requirement under STCW ISPS for members of a Yacht’s Crew or Staff reporting to the Ship Security Officer, who have been assigned designated security duties on board the yacht. The course will provide the Learner with the information required to complete the required instruction under STCW, the MNTB KUPs, IMO Model Course 3.26, and the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA). For information on the course Awarding Body and Certification, please view the Certifications Tab.

Maritime Security Operators (MSO) Requirements

Please note that in most countries, personnel fulfilling the role of Maritime Security Operators (MSO) for Anti-Piracy Duties, must also undertake the PDSD course. Please refer to Flag State guidance from your relevant Department for Transport Agency, or employer to verify their legal requirement.

Course Learning Outcomes

- Maintain the conditions set out in a Ship Security Plan

- Recognise security risk and threats

- Undertake regular security inspections

- Properly use security equipment and systems

Course Structure

- 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.

- Security monitoring, monitoring 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.

Regulations Addressed

- The MNTB Security Courses Criteria (2nd Edition)

- STCW Reg VI/6 para 4 Section A-VI/6, para 6 to 8 of the STCW Convention and Code (2010)

- International Maritime Organization (IMO) Model Course 3.26

- The International Ship & Port Security (ISPS) Code 2004 as amended (STCW Table A-VI/6-2)

Useful Information

Security Encrypted PDF Certificate

Upon successful completion of the online course, verification of Learner ID, and associated official Assessment, Learners will receive an electronic security-encrypted version of your official course certificate (in secure PDF format). Certificates are usually emailed to the Learner within 24 to 48 hours of confirmation of the course results, or the next working day if the course is successfully completed on a Friday.

Awarding Body

The Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course is fully Approved by the UK DfT Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) and is internationally recognised and accepted. It includes the 2010 Manila Amendments and meets the requirements of Section A-VI/6, paragraphs 6 to 8 of the STCW Convention and Code, and Table A-VI/6-2.

Hardcopy, Embossed Stamped Certificate

Learners may also request an embossed stamped, hardcopy certificate to be posted to their home address. Please note that VIRSEC is not responsible for any loss or delay of the certificate once it has been dispatched to Royal Mail. Should a Carrier Service be requested, then the relevant charges will be applied, and all payments must be made before the certificate is posted.

Certification Renewal

Under the Awarding Body (Maritime & Coastguard Agency), there are currently no expiry dates placed on the (STCW ISPS) Proficiency in Designated Security Duties course certificates. Learners do not currently have to undertake a refresher or re-certification of this course unless directed to do so by the company they are working for.

Expedited Course Certificate Service

Should a Learner require the certificate to be expedited, either after office hours, at weekends, during holidays, or other means, a surcharge of £49.95 GBP (+VAT) will be charged and sent by Secure Payment Link. Please note that all payments must be made before the certificate is sent.