Training for SSOs - amendments to STCW Convention and Code endorsed
Minimum mandatory training and certification requirements for persons to be designated as ship security officers (SSOs) were endorsed by the Sub-Committee on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping when it met for its 36th session in January 2005.
Candidates for a certificate of proficiency as a ship security officer will be required to demonstrate they have the knowledge to complete a range of tasks, duties and responsibilities, including: maintenance and supervision of the implementation of a ship security plan; assessment of security risk, threat, and vulnerability; undertaking regular inspections of the ship to ensure that appropriate security measures are implemented and maintained; ensuring that security equipment and systems, if any, are properly operated, tested and calibrated; and encouraging security awareness and vigilance.
The Sub-Committee endorsed draft amendments to the STCW Convention and to parts A and B of the STCW Code. The proposed amendments include:
- New STCW regulation VI/5 - Requirements for the issue of certificates of proficiency for Ship Security Officers;
- New STCW Code section A-VI/5 - Requirements for the issue of certificates of proficiency for Ship Security Officers, including table A-VI/5 Specifications of minimum standards of proficiency for ship security officers; and
- New STCW Code section B-VI/5 - Guidance regarding training for Ship Security Officers.
The Sub-committee also agreed a draft MSC circular providing guidance on training and documentation for company security officers which includes a table of knowledge, understanding and proficiencies (KUPS) relevant to the company security officer.
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