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MCA Approved Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Training & Certification Online - VIRSEC

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MCA Approved STCW ISPS Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course Online for Seafarers by VIRSEC


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The STCW Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) training is mandatory for all seafarers working on board of vessels with designated Security duties. The course will provide the essential training, education, understanding and proficiency requirements and is intended to provide the knowledge required to enable personnel to do their Designated Security Duties as required by the vessels Ship Security Plan (SSP).

The Designated Security Duties training is in accordance with the requirements of the STCW Table A-VI/6-2, which supports Chapter XI-2 of the annex to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS ) Code.

The online and MCA Approved Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course is for those who will carry out designated security duties and responsibilities, functioning under the ISPS Code and encountering security-related incidents whilst transiting High-Risk Areas or operating in adverse conditions.

Separate online PDSD courses are offered for the crew and staff of commercial Cargo vessels, ferries, superyachts, cruise ships and related industries

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Online STCW PDSD Training

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PDSD Certification

  • Course: This fully online IMO Model Course 3.26 and MCA Approved PDSD course is specifically designed for those crew members, who will carry out Designated Security Duties and responsibilities and reporting to the Ship Security Officer.
  • Mode of Study & Assessments: Fully online including the tests / assessments
  • Course Access: 6 months
  • Course Approval: UK MCA
  • Compliance: STCW table A-VI/6-2
  • Acceptance: MCA UK and any country that is signed up to the ISPS Code and STCW Convention should accept the certification.
  • Duration: Approximately 8 hours
  • Online Assessment: There is an assessment on completion of the five Learning Outcomes. You must achieve a minimum score of 70% to successfully complete the assessment. If you fail an assessment, you may retake it again straight away, or whenever you wish within 6 months.
  • Invigilation During Online Assessment: There is a requirement for an invigilator to be present during your Assessment only. This can be the Master, Ship Security Officer or other Officer ranked member of the crew. They will be required to complete the Online Invigilator Verification Form ( linked from the course). They must complete this form and be present at your Assessment. If you do not have access to an Invigilator, you can do the course, but you must inform VIRSEC, and they will arrange for you to attend an online remote invigilation session.
  • Certification: Upon successful completion of the online course, verification of Learner ID, and associated official assessment, learners will receive an electronic version of the official course certificate in secure PDF format by email. A hard copy can also be requested.
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PDSD Course Content

  • The Development of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code
  • Understand the relevant international conventions, codes and recommendations relating to Maritime Piracy & Armed Robbery against Shipping
  • Understand the roles and responsibilities of relevant bodies and organizations
  • The roles and responsibilities of Contracting Governments, Designated Authorities, and Recognized Security Organizations
  • The Security Roles & Responsibilities of Crew and Port Security Personnel
  • Measures and Procedures for Maritime Security (MARSEC) Levels
  • Recognition of weapons, dangerous substances, and devices
  • Recognition of persons who may pose a threat to the security of the ship
  • Identifying techniques used to circumvent security measures
  • The handling of Sensitive Security-Related Information (SSRI) and Communications
  • Identifying security threats including Maritime Piracy & Armed Robbery against Shipping
  • Plus more

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UK MCA Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Online

LAST UPDATED ON Aug 16, 2024