ADU

Security Training for Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD)

Courses by Topic
Did You Know?

Hijackings of ships in the Somalia's coast region caused havoc for international shipping from about 2001 to 2012, peaking with 176 attacks in 2011. They declined in part because of actions by the European Union's anti-piracy mission.

VPDSD

Accredited Certification

Earn professional certificates approved by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and/or Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK). Most countries accept Class-approved training certificate as equivalent for local endorsements. Check with your flag state for endorsement requirements.

This is an ABS-approved course. Candidates will earn an ABS-approved course completion certificate upon successful completion of this course.

This course is also approved by the US Coast Guard. US citizens can earn a USCG-approved course completion certificate by passing a proctored online test from a USCG-approved location.

All ships today must have a vessel security plan (VSP). Candidates who successfully complete the VPDSD course should be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge to undertake the duties assigned under the VSP. Any candidate who has successfully completed the Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD) course will satisfy the requirements for security-related training, Paragraphs 6-8 of Section A-VI/6 and Table AVI/ 6-2 of the STCW Code, as amended, AND satisfy the training requirements of 33 CFR 104.220.

Course Topics:
  • Knowledge of current security threats and patterns
  • Recognition and detection of weapons, dangerous substances and devices
  • Recognition of characteristics and behavioral patterns of persons who are likely to threaten security
  • Techniques used to circumvent security measures
  • Crowd management and control techniques
  • Security related communications
  • Knowledge of emergency procedures and contingency plans
  • Operation of security equipment and systems
  • Testing, calibration and at-sea maintenance of security equipment and systems
  • Inspection, control, and monitoring techniques
  • Methods of physical searches of persons, personal effects, baggage, cargo, and vessel stores
  • The meaning and the requirements of the different MARSEC Levels
  • Familiarity with aspects of the TWIC program and how to carry them out
The Benefits of Online Courses
  • Flexible course enrollment
  • Interactive online program proctored by industry experts
  • Affordable and convenient with volume license discounts for corporate customers
  • Certificate of achievement issued by Mariner Skills upon successful program completion

Upon registration, courses are conveniently accessible online for condidates to participate at their own pace and on their own schedule