Ship Security Officer (SSO) Training – ISPS Code Compliance

Gain the comprehensive knowledge and leadership skills required to serve as a Ship Security Officer (SSO) in accordance with the ISPS Code and SOLAS XI-2. This online course equips you to manage the full Ship Security Plan (SSP) lifecycle, lead incident response, coordinate with the CSO/PFSO, and ensure your vessel remains security-ready at all times.

Highlights

• 100% Online, SCORM-compliant training
• Meets ISPS Code & SOLAS XI-2 requirements
• 4 interactive self-study modules (~2 hours each)
• Covers SSP governance, SSA interpretation, incident command & security technology
• Essential for officers appointed as Ship Security Officers (SSO)
• STCW-compliant certificate by SIMAC – approved by the Danish Maritime Authority (DMA)

About the Ship Security Officer (SSO) Course

The Ship Security Officer (SSO) Training Course is designed for officers responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining the vessel’s security framework under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

Maritime security threats are continually evolving — from piracy and terrorism to cyber-enabled risks and human-factor vulnerabilities. As an SSO, your role is central to safeguarding the ship, its crew, passengers, and cargo. This training provides the tools, clarity, and practical methods needed to operate shipboard security as a functioning management system.

Course Structure

This training is delivered across four self-paced modules that combine reading materials, visual aids, and practical learning activities:

Module 1: SSO Role, Governance & the Ship Security Plan (SSP) Lifecycle

Gain a clear mandate and operating picture as SSO. Learn the Master’s overriding authority, SSO responsibilities, coordination with the CSO/PFSO, and how to manage the complete SSP lifecycle — from inputs and approvals to implementation, confidentiality, drills, inspections, and audits.

Module 2: Advanced SSA & Risk-Based Security at the Ship/Port Interface

Dive deeper into the Ship Security Assessment (SSA). Learn methods, on-scene survey techniques, and vulnerability analysis. Translate risks into proportional SSP controls and level-based measures (Levels 1–3). Use the Declaration of Security (DoS) and apply targeted controls to high-risk operations such as bunkering, Ro-Ro, STS transfers, passenger embarkation, and HAZMAT handling.

Module 3: On-Board Incident Command — Response, Reporting & Investigation

Lead shipboard response with clarity. Structure alarms and notifications, manage movement control and lockdowns, secure scenes, maintain chain of custody, and understand SSAS usage (test vs. live). Learn how to produce defensible reports and conduct root-cause analysis that feeds into corrective actions and continuous improvement.

Module 4: Security Technology, Cyber Integration & Continuous Improvement

Make security technology work for you: CCTV, lighting, alarms, access control, logging, and test governance. Integrate cyber-relevant practices such as accounts/MFA, updates, removable-media policy, and logging. Use KPIs and dashboards to prioritise fixes, justify security budgets, and maintain an “any-day audit-ready” culture.

Learning Outcomes

By completing this course, you will be able to:

• Explain the legal framework behind SOLAS XI-2 and the ISPS Code, including SSO duties under ISPS A/12.
• Own and manage the full SSP lifecycle, including versions, amendments, distribution, and confidentiality.
• Interpret and validate the Ship Security Assessment (SSA) and map risks directly to SSP controls.
• Scale measures by security level, applying the correct actions for Levels 1–3 and aligning with port facility postures.
• Lead ship/port interface security, including when and how to issue a Declaration of Security (DoS).
• Command incident response using structured alerts, lockdowns, movement control, evidence preservation, and SSAS procedures.
• Report and document security activities through complete, time-stamped, auditable records.
• Integrate security technology and cyber-relevant practices into your shipboard security framework.
• Drive continuous improvement, using KPIs and PDCA methodology to maintain inspection readiness.

Format

• 100% Online, SCORM-compliant e-learning
• 4 modules, approx. 2 hours each
• Flexible self-study — learn anytime, anywhere

Prepare yourself to lead shipboard security with confidence, ensure compliance with international maritime requirements, and safeguard your vessel through disciplined implementation, response readiness, and continuous improvement.