Why the ‘Plus’?

The ‘+’ of the SSO Plus course are the additional modules which have been introduced into IMSA Ltd’s standard certificated ISPS Code SSO Course. These modules are designed to provide additional information on merchant ships and the shipping industry to delegates whose experience of either is lacking. They also bring some informed, professional insight on the ‘Threat-of-the-Day’ – Piracy.

Whilst delegates will still receive an MCA approved Certificate the aim is to give them more of an overview of the maritime security industry in general with an emphasis on anti-piracy work. Many of our competitor training providers extend their SSO course by a day to specifically address piracy, of course charging for the extra day and accommodation. By finishing the training days later and introducing a few extra modules, we are able to contain the SSO Plus course to the original three days (that’s 21 hrs of training to the IMO model course criteria + the anti-piracy module). Our delegates complete the course better prepared to gain employment in the marsec/anti-piracy industry. The anti-piracy module is not just about boots on the bridge and hardening the ship. We instil the necessary credibility required to gain the delegate that valuable confidence of the Master and crew. The industry does have Best Management Practice (BMP) and a Security Code of Practice which are also studied. Understanding how the Industry operates is critical to the interaction with the client the delegate will be protecting.

Course Aim

The aim of the SSO Plus course is to provide a Ship’s Officer or Maritime Security Operator with the knowledge and skills to carry out their duties as a designated Ship Security Officer or a Maritime Security Operator in accordance with the ISPS Code. In particular, the successful delegate will be able to:

Additionally, the delegate will receive additional modules that will enable them to have a better understanding of the Maritime Security sector and their role in it.

Who Should Attend?

Ship’s officers who have been, or are likely to be, appointed as Ship Security Officers under the ISPS Code, former armed forces people, maritime security consultants who will need this extended qualification as a requirement for their credibility. It will also be a pre-requisite for those with a maritime background looking to work in Ship/Offshore Security.

Certification

The vast majority of maritime security companies require their PCASP (Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel) to have completed an SSO’s course and ask for the SSO certificate as part of the pre training package required before considering a candidate for employment as a PCASP.
Candidates who are looking to move into the maritime security industry that do not have a seafaring background attend the SSO course to gain an understanding of the ISPS code and how it applies to the merchant marine. This knowledge will enable the PCASP to fulfil their duties in a professional manner whilst onboard.
As from the 16th September 2011 a new certificate “Proficiency in Designated Security Duties” has been issued by the MCA and should be issued to all delegates who have attend an SSO course but do not have 12 months qualifying sea service. We are now issuing this new certificate and a covering letter to successful delegates, we will only issue the SSO certificate after asking for proof of sea service ( former RN and RM personnel will be eligible if they have the necessary sea time).
We have circulated the information regarding this new certificate to all maritime security companies who are members of SAMI (Security Association for the Maritime Industry) so that their HR departments are aware of the new certification and do not discriminate against candidates who have the new certificate. We have also spoken to a number major maritime security companies and they will accept potential employees who have either certificate.

Included In The Course:

Course Duration:

3 days

Need More Information?

For more information about our course structure or to book a place on our next available course please contact us:

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