ISPS - Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO)

The ISPS – Port Facility Security Officer course is designed for professionals responsible for port facility security in accordance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. Participants learn how to implement and monitor security measures, ensure compliance, and effectively coordinate between the Company Security Officer (CSO) and the Ship Security Officer (SSO).

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

Select a Start Date

No course
Full
Available
Selected

Select location

Select course

About this course

ISPS Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO)

Introduction
During this two-day course, participants gain an in-depth understanding of the PFSO’s duties and responsibilities within the framework of international maritime security. The program combines theory with practical exercises and case studies covering topics such as threat assessment, access control, security planning, and coordination between port authorities, ship operators, and security organizations.

Objective
The aim of the ISPS – Port Facility Security Officer course is to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to oversee the implementation of security measures within the port facility, act as a liaison between the CSO and the SSO, assess and manage risks, apply appropriate security levels, and develop and maintain effective port facility security plans in compliance with the ISPS Code.

Target group
This course is intended for individuals designated or to be designated as Port Facility Security Officers (PFSOs). It is suitable for port managers, security officers, supervisors, and personnel from port authorities. The training can be delivered as a general course or tailored to a specific port facility.

31
Practical info

Course content
The program covers both theoretical and practical aspects of port facility security, including:

  • Introduction and impact of terrorism
  • Terrorism and threat assessment
  • Terrorist profiling
  • Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and countermeasures
  • Maritime sector threats
  • The ISPS Code and its application to port facilities
  • Principles of security
  • Port Security Measures and procedures
  • Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP)
  • Port Security Committee
  • Port Facility Assessment
  • Declaration of Security (DoS)
  • Application of Security Levels 1, 2, and 3
  • Access control and screening
  • Training requirements and awareness programs

Certification
The course concludes with a written exam. Upon successful completion, participants receive the internationally recognized Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) certificate.

Validity
The validity of the certificate is determined by 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

31

Day 1 - Maritime security framework and risk analysis

The first day of the ISPS Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) course focuses on the international and national maritime security frameworks and the role of the PFSO within this structure. Participants study the Maritime Security Policy, explore key threats to the maritime industry, and learn how to conduct a Port Facility Security Assessment (PFSA). In the afternoon, attention shifts to developing a Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP) and identifying and evaluating potential threats within port environments.

Day 2 - Security implementation and emergency procedures

The second day emphasizes the practical implementation of security plans and the operational duties of the PFSO. Participants examine the detailed structure and execution of the PFSP, as well as the use of surveillance and security monitoring equipment. Emergency preparedness, alerting procedures, and documentation requirements are also covered. The day concludes with a written assessment and final evaluation.

 

What's on the program?

  • Day 1 - Maritime security framework and risk analysis
  • Day 2 - Security implementation 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.

Lokaal;;

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.

Kantine

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.

Maarten Janse
Senior Maritime Instructor
Martijn Schutz
Deputy Managing Director

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.

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 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.

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.