ISPS - Company Security Officer (CSO)

The ISPS – Company Security Officer course prepares participants for the role of Company Security Officer (CSO) in accordance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. Participants learn how to develop, implement, and maintain ship security plans, assess and manage threats, and promote a proactive security culture within their organization.

Course duration: 2 days
Locations: Groningen, Vlissingen
Cost per student: € 619,00 (excl. BTW)

Questions or need help? Send an email or call 0031 118 463382

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About this course

ISPS Company Security Officer (CSO)

Introduction
During this intensive course, participants learn how to effectively oversee ship security operations within their company or organization. The training combines theoretical instruction with practical case studies on risk analysis, incident management, and coordination with flag states, port authorities, and onboard security officers. Emphasis is placed on compliance with the ISPS Code, promoting security awareness, and applying effective protective measures.

Objective
The aim of the ISPS – Company Security Officer course is to provide participants with the knowledge and skills required to develop, maintain, and monitor Ship Security Plans (SSP), identify and analyze security risks and threats, conduct regular ship security inspections and audits, implement and evaluate security measures, and promote a strong security and safety culture within the company.

Target group
This course is designed for personnel within shipping companies and maritime organizations who are responsible for, or will be assigned to, the implementation of the ISPS Code as Company Security Officers (CSOs).

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Practical info

Entry requirements

  • No formal prerequisites
  • Knowledge of quality management systems is recommended

Course content
The training covers both theoretical and practical aspects of maritime security, including:

  • Threats to maritime operations
  • Terrorism and counterterrorism measures
  • Terrorist and potential weapons
  • Ship security and preventive actions
  • Stowaway prevention
  • Anti-piracy measures
  • Understanding and applying the ISPS Code and SOLAS Chapter XI
  • Relevant legislation in the USA, Canada, and the United Kingdom
  • Responsibilities of governments, flag states, and certifying authorities

Certification
Upon successful completion and passing the exam, participants receive the Company Security Officer (CSO) certificate and the Ship Security Officer (SSO) certificate.

Validity
The validity period of the certificates depends on applicable national and international regulations.

Practical information
Duration: 2 consecutive days
Class hours: 08:30 – 17:00
Participants: To be determined
Accreditation: In accordance with the international ISPS Code and SOLAS requirements

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Day 1 - Security policy and risk assessment

The first day of the ISPS Company Security Officer (CSO) course focuses on developing a thorough understanding of maritime security structures and responsibilities. Participants study the Maritime Security Policy, the role of the Company Security Officer, and the legal framework of the ISPS Code. The use of security equipment and the process of conducting a Ship Security Assessment (SSA) are also covered. In the afternoon, attention shifts to developing and maintaining a Ship Security Plan (SSP), with emphasis on risk identification, defining security levels, and implementing effective protective measures.

Day 2 - Threat recognition and emergency procedures

The second day covers the practical implementation of onboard and organizational security measures. Participants learn to identify threats, respond to suspicious activity, and apply emergency procedures during security incidents. The course also addresses administration, reporting, and security training. In the afternoon, participants focus on port organization, alerting procedures, and piracy awareness. The day concludes with a validation test and final evaluation of acquired knowledge and skills.

What's on the program?

  • Day 1 - Security policy and risk assessment
  • Day 2 - Threat recognition and emergency procedures

High-quality facilities that make a difference

With the best resources and facilities at our disposal, we are able to offer training and courses of the highest quality.

Classrooms

Theory and practice under one roof

Classrooms

The perfect environment for theory sessions, preparation, and evaluation of practical training.

Canteen

Enjoy a good meal and relax during your training days

Canteen

Provided by SEC Catering – your break moment with quality food and excellent service during training days.

Theory and practice under one roof

Classrooms

Our classrooms form the foundation of all our training programs. Here, participants prepare with theoretical knowledge, interactive presentations, and clear instructions before moving on to the practical sessions. The rooms are modern, well-equipped, and provide a calm, professional learning environment.

What makes the classrooms unique is their direct connection to our training facilities. This allows theory to be applied immediately in practice, ensuring an optimal learning experience for every participant.

Who is it for

The classrooms are used by all participants in maritime, offshore, and industrial training programs. Whether for short briefings or multi-day courses, they serve as both the starting point and the place for reflection and debriefing.

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What you’ll experience

Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll take part in:

  • Theoretical instruction and presentations

  • Preparation for practical exercises

  • Safety briefings and procedural training

  • Interactive discussions and group assignments

  • Evaluation and debriefing of practical training sessions

  • Testing and certification

The classrooms are equipped with modern audiovisual tools and can be configured flexibly for both small groups and larger sessions.

For your organization

Would you like to combine customized or in-company training with both theory and practice?
Contact us — together we’ll design a program that aligns perfectly with your learning objectives.

Enjoy a good meal and relax during your training days

Canteen

The Canteen is your place to unwind — enjoy good food, a pleasant atmosphere, and the opportunity to share experiences. Catering is provided by SEC Catering, a regional company from Zeeland known for its fresh, flavorful dishes and flexible service.

Who is it for

Everyone participating in our training programs — from trainees and instructors to guests — is welcome in the Canteen to take a break, hold a meeting, or simply enjoy a meal.

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What you’ll experience

  • Fresh, locally sourced dishes provided by SEC Catering

  • Options for lunch, snacks, and drinks

  • Comfortable seating areas to relax between training sessions

  • An informal meeting space to share experiences and connect with others

For your organization

Would you like your training day to be fully catered, including food and drinks?
Let us know your preferences — together with SEC Catering, we’ll arrange everything from the menu to the timing.

Our instructors

The people behind the training.

Our experienced trainers challenge you to bring out the best in yourself. Our program coordinators are available to provide you with all information and to answer any practical questions regarding the training.

Martijn Schutz
Deputy Managing Director
Emile van Dooren
Instructor
Maarten Janse
Senior Maritime Instructor

Let them convince you

Frequently asked questions

DRTC provides a wide range of accredited safety courses for the maritime, offshore, wind and industrial sectors.

  • STCW – including Basic Training, Advanced Fire Fighting, Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSCRB/FRB), Medical First Aid, Medical Care and Security Awareness.
  • GWO – Basic Safety Training (BST) and individual modules such as Working at Height, First Aid, Fire Awareness, Manual Handling, Sea Survival and Enhanced First Aid.
  • NOGEPA – Basic Offshore Safety, Helicopter Underwater Escape (HUET), Sea Survival, Fire-fighting and specialised refresher courses.
  • BHV/First Aid/VCA – Basic and refresher courses in Emergency Response, First Aid and Safety Certification for all sectors.

See the current course overview on our website or contact drtc@drtc.nl for advice on the right training for your needs.

Not required, but possible. Call us for advice or available options at +31 118 463 382 or email drtc@drtc.nl.

Yes, we can. You can request this when booking or contact us by email or phone. We will arrange a suitable hotel and package for your stay.

For some courses, you can choose VAT exemption. This means the training will be invoiced without 21% VAT. The exemption applies only to recognised vocational training programmes that fall under official supervision by organisations such as ILT, OPITO, GWO, or NOGEPA.

Choose VAT exemption if you are taking the course for professional purposes or as a private individual without VAT deduction rights.
Choose including VAT if you are booking on behalf of a company that can reclaim VAT from the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration.

Your invoice will then state:
“Exempt from VAT under Article 11, paragraph 1, section o of the Dutch VAT Act 1968.”

Yes, lunch and beverages are included in all full-day arrangements unless otherwise specified. On request, we can also assist with hotel bookings.

Payments can be made via iDEAL, credit card, or invoice (for companies). Payment by debit or credit card is also possible on location.

Please inform us in advance when booking. We will make suitable arrangements, such as extra guidance, adapted materials, or additional time during assessments.

You will receive an email confirmation immediately after booking. Didn’t receive an email? Check your spam folder or call us at +31 118 463 382.

For all courses, you must be fit to participate safely. Please inform us in advance of any medical limitations. For STCW training, a valid medical certificate is required.

You can cancel your booking by contacting us via email or phone. For open enrolment courses you may cancel free of charge up to 5 working days before the start. For customised training you may cancel free of charge up to 14 working days before the start. If you cancel within those deadlines the full course fee will be invoiced.

Visit our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ page for more information, or contact us at +31 118 463 382 or email drtc@drtc.nl.

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