Personal Safety & Social Responsibility (PSSR)
Learn shipboard safety and your responsibilities as crew. Shows you’re a maritime professional.
1/2 Day
03 SEP 2026
Certification
MCA
Who issues your official qualification
Recognition
Worldwide
Where your certificate is accepted. Check with your flag state for specific approvals.
STCW Compliance
A-VI/6-2
Legal codes this course fulfills under maritime law
Suitable For
All Crew
Who the course is designed for
Experience Level
No experience required
Minimum experience needed to join
Duration
1/2 Day
Training days only, breaks are not included
Certificate Validity
5 Years
How long your certificate stays valid
Why This
Course Matters
This course prepares you to recognise security threats like piracy, terrorism, and stowaways, and understand ISPS code procedures. Required for employment on ships subject to ISPS compliance—commercial cargo, megayachts, cruise lines, and offshore support vessels.
What You’ll
Learn
Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (STCW A-VI/6-2)
This module prepares crew assigned specific security responsibilities. You’ll be trained in maintaining the ship security plan, conducting searches, identifying threats, using security equipment, and responding to security incidents effectively.
0
100
What’s Included
Comprehensive course materials
Coffee station and snacks
Free rescheduling up to 7 days before course start
PREREQUSITES
Minimum age
16 years old
Language Requirement
A good level of spoken and written English is required, as all training and assessments are conducted in English
Meet Your
Instructors
Frequently
Asked Questions
What is Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD)?
PDSD is an advanced STCW security module for crew who are assigned specific security responsibilities onboard. It goes beyond general awareness and trains you to actively carry out security tasks under the vessel’s Ship Security Plan.
Who issues and recognises the PDSD certificate?
The certificate is issued in accordance with Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) standards and complies with STCW 2010 Manila Amendments. MCA approval is widely regarded as a gold standard and is accepted by flag states, port authorities, yacht operators, and insurers worldwide.
Who actually needs the PDSD course?
PDSD is required for crew formally assigned security duties, such as access control, monitoring restricted areas, conducting security rounds, or assisting the Ship Security Officer. It’s commonly required on commercial yachts, ISPS-compliant vessels, and larger charter yachts.
What’s the difference between PSA and PDSD?
PSA is for all crew and focuses on recognising and reporting security threats.
PDSD is for crew with active security responsibilities and includes implementing procedures, conducting checks, and responding according to the Ship Security Plan. If you’re named in security duties, PSA alone is not sufficient.
Is there an exam for PDSD?
Yes. There is a written test covering security procedures, threat response, access control, reporting lines, and individual responsibilities under ISPS regulations. The questions focus on applied understanding, not memorisation.
Is there a practical assessment?
Assessment is scenario-based. You’ll be evaluated on decision-making, correct procedure, and situational judgement related to real onboard security situations rather than physical drills.
What happens if I fail the exam or assessment?
If you don’t meet the required standard, you are allowed to take a resit. Instructors will explain what needs improvement before the retake. The objective is to ensure competence and regulatory compliance.
How important is English for the PDSD course?
English is essential — both written and verbal. You must understand security briefings, documentation, and reporting procedures, and complete the written exam in English. Clear communication is critical during security incidents.
Is PDSD useful for career progression?
Yes. Holding PDSD makes you eligible for roles on ISPS-compliant and commercially coded vessels, and is often required for progression into senior crew, officer, or security-responsible positions on larger yachts.