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  • Expert trainers from the field
  • Intensive cooperation with education
  • Flexible delivery: anywhere, anytime
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ISPS - Proficiency in Ship Security Officer (SSO)

The ISPS – Ship Security Officer (SSO) course provides seafarers with the knowledge and skills required to effectively carry out the duties of a Ship Security Officer onboard ISPS-compliant vessels. The course complies with the international ISPS Code and STCW Convention and focuses on ensuring ship security against threats such as piracy, terrorism, and sabotage.

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 Ship Security Officer (SSO)

Introduction
During this two-day course, participants learn how to organize onboard security, assess risks, and raise crew awareness regarding safety and security. The Ship Security Officer works closely with the Company Security Officer (CSO) and the Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) to implement, maintain, and monitor security measures. The training combines theoretical lessons with realistic case studies based on maritime security scenarios.

Objective
The aim of the ISPS – Ship Security Officer (SSO) course is to prepare participants for the responsibilities of an SSO onboard. The SSO, appointed by the shipowner, is responsible for ensuring compliance with ship security measures, promoting crew security awareness, and coordinating the security of cargo and stores. The SSO also serves as a liaison between the Company Security Officer (CSO) and the Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO).

Target group
This course is intended for seafarers designated by their company to act as Ship Security Officers responsible for implementing and maintaining shipboard security measures.

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Practical info

Entry requirements
Participants must have at least one year of sea service to qualify for this course.

Course content
The course covers the following subjects:

  • Threats to maritime security
  • Terrorism and potential terrorist weapons
  • Shipboard security and preventive actions
  • Measures to prevent stowaways
  • Anti-piracy procedures and countermeasures
  • ISPS Code and SOLAS Chapter XI
  • National and international maritime security legislation
  • Responsibilities of governments, flag states, and certifying bodies
  • Coordination between SSO, CSO, and PFSO

Certification
Upon successful completion and passing the final exam, participants receive the internationally recognized Proficiency for Ship Security Officer certificate (STCW reg. VI/5, section A-VI/5, Table A-VI/5).

Validity
The certificate is valid indefinitely, provided that within five years of issuance, the holder has completed at least one year of sea service.

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

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Day 1 - International Maritime Security and Responsibilities

The first day of the ISPS – Ship Security Officer (SSO) course focuses on international maritime security legislation and the responsibilities defined under the ISPS Code. Participants gain a comprehensive understanding of ISPS and SOLAS requirements, the roles of governments, companies, and shipboard personnel, and the development and maintenance of the Ship Security Plan (SSP) and Ship Security Assessment (SSA). The afternoon covers risk assessment techniques, use of security equipment, and the practical application of shipboard security levels. The day concludes with procedures for implementing the SSP and reporting security incidents.

Day 2 - Threat Recognition, Emergency Preparedness, and Piracy

The second day emphasizes the operational aspects of ship security and the Ship Security Officer’s role in maintaining onboard safety. Participants learn to identify threats, recognize suspicious behavior, and conduct systematic search procedures. Topics include emergency preparedness, organizing and evaluating drills, and managing security documentation. The afternoon focuses on cooperation with port authorities, anti-piracy measures, and applying the Ship Security Plan in realistic scenarios. The course concludes with a written examination and final evaluation.

 
 

What's on the program?

  • Day 1 - International Maritime Security and Responsibilities
  • Day 2 - Threat Recognition, Emergency Preparedness, and Piracy

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.

Bekijk alle faciliteiten Onze locaties

Get to know our facilities in Vlissingen

Our training locations are specifically designed to optimize your learning experience. With modern facilities, realistic training environments, and centrally located centers in Vlissingen and Groningen, we offer a professional and comfortable setting where practice and safety come together.

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.

Classrooms

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.

Canteen

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.

Emile van Dooren
Instructor
Maarten Janse
Senior Maritime Instructor

Let them convince you

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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.