STCW Security Awareness (PSA) Course

The online Security Awareness (PSA) Course has been customised exclusively for crew and staff operating aboard Cargo Vessels, working on Offshore Wind Farms, Ferries, and Mobile Drilling Platforms. Additionally, we also offer tailored versions of the Security Awareness Course designed for the Luxury Yacht Sector and Cruise Ship Sector.

To give those onboard ship who do not have a designated security duty the essential education and training meeting the Knowledge, Understanding and Proficiency (KUP) requirements set out in STCW Table A-VI/6-1, which supports Chapter XI-2 of the annex to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) 1974, as amended and the International Ship and Port Facility security (ISPS) Code. Please note that the Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA) Course must be undertaken by all seafarers employed or engaged in any capacity on ships which are required to comply with the ISPS Code.

The online Security Awareness (PSA) Course has received complete Approval from the UK DfT Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) and is internationally recognised and accepted. It covers the 2010 Manila Amendments and conforms to the specifications outlined in Section A-VI/6, paragraph 4 of the STCW Convention and Code, along with Table A-VI/6-1.

The online Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA) Course Approved by the UK DfT MCA aligns with the Learning Outcomes that have been established by the Merchant Navy Training Board [MNTB].

1. Be aware of the importance of ship security and the roles of those involved in its provision.
2. Be aware of the requirements and measures to maintain ship security.
3. Be able to recognise and report a security threat.

The PSA Course includes the following subjects:

• A working knowledge of Maritime Security Terms and Definitions, including those that relate to Maritime Piracy and Armed Robbery against Shipping.
• An understanding of International Maritime Security Policy.
• An understanding of the Maritime Security (MARSEC) Levels and their impact on security measures and procedures aboard ship and in port facilities.
• How to report a security incident
• An understanding of security-related contingency plans.
• How to recognise security threats, including Maritime Piracy and Armed Robbery against Shipping.
• How to recognise weapons, dangerous substances and devices and an understanding of the damage they can cause.
• The importance of information security with regards to Sensitive Security-Related Information (SSRI) and Communications.
• An understanding of the importance of security related drills and exercises including those relating to Anti-Piracy and Anti -Armed Robbery.

The duration of the online Security Awareness (PSA) Course is around 3.5 to 4 hours. A slight variance is allowed to accommodate different reading speeds, but the minimum time requirement must be fulfilled along with the relevant official assessments to successfully finish the course. This is a mandatory requirement under the MCA.

There are no pre-requisites for attending this online course.

Book your STCW Security Awareness Course at VIRSEC, where you can learn about Maritime Security Awareness Training. If you have any questions about the course or any of our other Maritime Security Training Courses, please contact us to inquire about bulk purchasing and associated discounts. You can also call us on +44 (0)161 763 4427 and ask for Olivia or Cathy who will happily assist you.

Official MCA Approved [STCW ISPS] Proficiency in Security Awareness Certification

Security Encrypted PDF Certificate

Upon successful completion of the online course, verification of Learner ID, and the associated official Assessment, learners will receive an electronic certificate in a secure PDF format, encrypted for security. Typically, certificates are emailed to learners within 24 to 48 hours of confirming the course results. If the course is successfully completed on a Friday, over the weekend, or on a Bank Holiday, certificates will be sent on the next working day.

Hardcopy, Embossed Stamped Certificate

Learners have the option to request a hardcopy certificate with an embossed stamp to be delivered to their home address. It’s important to note that VIRSEC assumes no responsibility for any loss or delay of the certificate once it’s dispatched via Royal Mail. If a Carrier Service is requested, relevant charges will apply, and all payments must be made before dispatch. If a certificate is lost or returned to VIRSEC via Royal Mail or a Carrier Service, VIRSEC does not accept any responsibility.

Expedited Course Certificate Service

In instances where learners require expedited certificate processing, such as outside of office hours, on weekends, during holidays, or under special circumstances, a surcharge of £49.95 GBP (+VAT) will be applied. Payment will be processed via a Secure Payment Link, and all payments must be settled before the certificate is dispatched. It is the responsibility of the Learner to ensure that they have enough time to take and complete the course and receive the certificate in time.

Certification Renewal

Currently, the Maritime & Coastguard Agency does not impose expiry dates on Proficiency in Security Awareness (STCW ISPS) Course certificates. Learners are not required to undergo refresher or re-certification unless mandated by their employer.