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  • Expert trainers from the field
  • Intensive cooperation with education
  • Flexible delivery: anywhere, anytime
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ISPS - Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (DSD)

The ISPS – Proficiency in Designated Security Duties course is designed for seafarers with designated security responsibilities onboard vessels subject to the ISPS Code. The training complies with the international STCW Convention and prepares participants to perform specific security duties, recognize threats, and effectively contribute to the safety of the ship, cargo, and crew.

Course duration: 1 day
Locations: Groningen, Vlissingen
Cost per student: From € 363,00 (excl. BTW)

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

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About this course

Proficiency in Designated Security Duties

Introduction
This hands-on course provides participants with the knowledge and skills to operate within the ISPS Code framework and the Ship Security Plan. The training addresses modern maritime security risks such as piracy, terrorism, sabotage, stowaways, and smuggling, while teaching participants how to conduct access control, inspections, and incident reporting. Emphasis is placed on situational awareness, cooperation, and the correct use of security equipment to maintain onboard safety.

Objective
The aim of the ISPS – Proficiency in Designated Security Duties course is to provide participants with the competence to perform designated onboard security duties safely and effectively, recognize potential threats and take appropriate action, use security equipment correctly, follow established security procedures, and assist in the implementation of the Ship Security Plan in accordance with ISPS and STCW A-VI/6-2 requirements.

Target group
This course is intended for all seafarers, except the Ship Security Officer (SSO), who are assigned specific security duties onboard ISPS-compliant vessels.

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Practical info

Entry requirements
No formal prerequisites.

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

  • International maritime security framework and the ISPS Code
  • Roles and responsibilities of crew members with security duties
  • Recognition and assessment of threats such as piracy, terrorism, and sabotage
  • Access control and inspection of baggage and cargo
  • Monitoring restricted areas
  • Ship-specific security measures for different security levels
  • Use and limitations of security equipment (CCTV, SSAS, detection systems)
  • Reporting procedures and communication during security incidents

Assessment and certification
The course concludes with a written exam at the end of the training day. Upon successful completion, participants receive the internationally recognized Proficiency in Designated Security Duties certificate (STCW reg. VI/6, section A-VI/6, Table A-VI/6-2). This certificate is valid for life and meets IMO and ISPS Code standards.

Practical information
Duration: 1 consecutive day
Class hours: 08:30 – 16:30
Participants: To be determined
Accreditation: In accordance with STCW and ISPS Code requirements

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Day 1 - Maritime security and responsibilities

The first day of the ISPS – Designated Security Duties (DSD) course focuses on the fundamentals of shipboard security. Participants learn key maritime security terms and definitions and gain an understanding of the responsibilities of governments, companies, and crew within the international security framework established by the ISPS Code. The session also covers security levels, implementation of onboard security measures, and procedures for reporting incidents and suspicious activity. The day concludes with a written test and evaluation.

Day 2 - Threat Recognition, Inspections, and Security Procedures

The second day covers the identification of security threats, weapons, and dangerous substances, along with their potential impact on shipboard safety. Participants learn to interpret and apply security levels, control access to restricted areas, monitor deck and cargo spaces, and conduct inspections. The course also addresses reporting procedures, emergency and contingency plans, drills, and security documentation. In the afternoon, attention is given to the operation, testing, and maintenance of security equipment and systems. The course concludes with a written assessment and evaluation.

What's on the program?

  • Day 1 - Maritime security and responsibilities
  • Day 2 - Threat Recognition, Inspections, and Security Procedures
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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
Martijn Schutz
Deputy Managing Director
Jorian Schut
Maritime Instructor
Michel de Pooter
Senior Maritime Instructor
Maarten Janse
Senior Maritime Instructor

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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.

BHV (company emergency response) is not legally mandatory on Curaçao, Aruba and Sint Maarten as it is in the Netherlands. However, employers are required to ensure a safe working environment, including first aid, fire safety and emergency procedures. On Bonaire (Caribbean Netherlands), the Arbowet BES applies, which includes similar safety obligations. In practice, BHV or equivalent safety training is strongly recommended and often required by employers, clients or insurers.

DRTC (De Ruyter Training & Consultancy) provides practical BHV and safety training in the Caribbean, focused on realistic scenarios such as fire response, accidents and evacuation. With DRTC training, organizations on Curaçao, Bonaire, Sint Maarten and Aruba ensure well-prepared personnel and meet applicable safety expectations.

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.

Based on Artikel 5 Annuleringen

  1. DRTC applies cancellation terms when cancelling training courses. A distinction is made between “open courses” and “customized courses.” A quotation is always provided for customized courses.

  2. Customized courses can be cancelled free of charge up to 14 working days before the start of the course.

  3. For cancellations of customized courses made 14 working days or fewer before the start of the course, 100% of the course fee will be charged.

  4. Open courses can be cancelled free of charge up to 5 working days before the start of the course.

  5. For cancellations of open courses made 5 working days or fewer before the start of the course, 100% of the course fee will be charged.

  6. Open courses can be rescheduled free of charge up to 2 working days before the start of the course.

  7. If a participant fails to attend at the start of the course, 100% of the course fee will be charged.

In mutual agreement, additional options may be considered beyond those stated in these terms.

Contact us at +31 118 463 382 or email drtc@drtc.nl.