Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Online Course (MCA Approved)
Our MCA-approved Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) course provides the mandatory STCW training required for seafarers who have designated security responsibilities on board a vessel.Â
Designed for those working across commercial shipping, offshore vessels, cruise ships, ferries, superyachts and other maritime sectors, this fully online course provides a practical understanding of security procedures, threat identification, emergency response measures and onboard security systems.
Study at your own pace, start immediately after purchase and complete your training from anywhere using a computer, tablet or smartphone
Course overview
Course Title
Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Online Course (MCA Approved)
The Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) course is intended for seafarers who have been assigned specific security responsibilities under a vessel’s Ship Security Plan.
This MCA-approved online course has been developed to meet the Knowledge, Understanding and Proficiency (KUP) requirements of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978, as amended. It also supports the requirements of Chapter XI-2 of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974, as amended, and the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
The course equips learners with the knowledge, skills and confidence required to perform their designated security duties effectively, recognise and respond to potential security threats, and support the implementation of the Ship Security Plan.
The certificate issued following successful completion confirms that the holder has met the requirements of Regulation VI/6, paragraph 2 of the STCW Convention, and Section A-VI/6, paragraphs 6 to 8 and Table A-VI/6-2 of the STCW Code.
The course covers five learning outcomes. To successfully complete the training, learners must submit short written coursework assignments and pass the final examination.
Course content
Roles and Responsibilities – Understand the security responsibilities of personnel with designated duties and how these roles support the overall security of the vessel.
ISPS Code Overview – Gain an understanding of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code, security levels and the responsibilities of vessels, companies and port facilities.
Security Risks, Threats and Vulnerabilities – Learn how to identify and assess potential risks and threats to the vessel, its personnel, cargo, assets and operations.
Security Plans, Equipment and Systems – Understand the capabilities and limitations of security plans, equipment and systems, including how they are used and managed on board.
International Codes and Conventions – Develop an understanding of the international legislation, codes and conventions relevant to maritime security.
The Ship Security Plan – Understand the purpose and structure of the Ship Security Plan and how designated security duties contribute to its effective implementation.
Security Contingency and Response – Learn the appropriate procedures for responding to security incidents, emergencies and changes in security levels.
Handling Stowaways and Refugees – Understand the procedures and considerations associated with managing stowaways, refugees and other unauthorised persons on board.
You can review the course as many times as you need before you take the exam.
Course Access
Once your purchase is complete, your course is available immediately through the E-learning Profile section of your Securewest account. You can begin your training straight away and complete the course at a pace that suits you.
Assessment
To successfully complete the PDSD course, you will be required to:
Complete all course modules.
Submit short written coursework assignments covering the required learning outcomes.
Pass the final examination.
Coursework submissions are reviewed and marked by our training team. You may review the course material as many times as necessary before completing the examination.
Certification
Your certificate will be issued once your identity and eligibility have been verified.
Following successful verification:
Your digital certificate will be issued electronically.
Your hard copy certificate will normally be dispatched within 5–10 working days.
Who should take the Proficiency for Seafarers with Designated Security Duties (PDSD) course?
This course is intended for seafarers and maritime personnel working on vessels where the ISPS Code applies who have been assigned designated security duties under the Ship Security Plan, including those working on:
Merchant vessels
Offshore support vessels
Cruise ships
Ferries
Superyachts
Mobile offshore units
Other vessels operating under the ISPS Code
If you do not have designated security responsibilities on board, you should instead complete the Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA) course.
Qualification
Proficiency in Designated Security Duties Reg VI/6 para 4 to 6 Section A-VI/6, para 6-8
Awarding Body
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