Guidelines for Maritime Security Training

Guidelines for Maritime Security Training Course Providers

I.

BACKGROUND

Section 109 of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (MTSA) (P.L. 107-295) charged
the Secretary of Transportation with developing “standards and curriculum to allow for the training
and certification of maritime security professionals.” The Secretary of Transportation delegated
the MTSA mandate to the Maritime Administration (MARAD) and the United States Merchant
Marine Academy, which developed the required standards and curriculum and prepared a report
to Congress. The standards, curriculum, and recommendations contained in that report were
developed through a deliberative and collaborative process, through which MARAD proactively
sought comment from all public and private stakeholders and initiated interagency cooperation
with the United States Coast Guard and Transportation Security Administration.
During development of the training guidelines, MARAD received many comments from training
providers seeking a means through which to have their courses “approved,” or otherwise
designated as courses that incorporate the standards and curriculum developed under MTSA.
Similar requests were received from facility and vessel operators wishing to enroll their security
personnel in courses employing MARAD’s training standards and model curriculum.
In response to these comments, and in order to assist parties charged with implementing the
education and training provisions of the MTSA, the Maritime Administration and the U.S. Coast
Guard have developed an optional program for maritime security training course certification. This
voluntary system is designed to align with potential future regulatory requirements.
II.

PROGRAM ELEMENTS

The voluntary program consists of the following elements:
1.

Application procedures for approval of maritime security training courses;

2.

Administrative procedures and record keeping for training providers;

3.

Oversight procedures to ensure that courses are taught in accordance with the

established guidelines;
4.

Renewal procedures; and

5.

Procedures for suspension or withdrawal of approval.

A training provider may seek approval of maritime security training courses by electronically
submitting a request containing the information described in Appendix A to the MARAD
Coordinator via MARAD’s Virtual Office of Acquisition (VOA) password protected website at
https://voa.marad.dot.gov/programs/mtsa/jump.asp. The MARAD Coordinator is presently
Sheila Brown her email address is: mailto:[email protected]. A MARAD contractor,
approved by the Coast Guard as a Quality Standard System (QSS) organization with experience
in maritime education and training, will assess requests and if necessary will conduct on-site
verification which will then be reviewed by the appropriate government agency. The Coast Guard
will be responsible for vessel personnel course approvals; MARAD will be responsible for other
course approvals. Course approval certification will then be issued electronically by the
Contractor.

III. IMPLEMENTATION.
Training providers - profit or non-profit - must be organized and authorized to conduct business
under the federal laws of the United States, or under the laws of any state of the United States, and
they must conduct the training in the United States or aboard a United States flag vessel to be
eligible for this program.
Training providers seeking course approval should submit a request and supporting
documentation containing the “ELEMENTS OF REQUEST FOR A MARITIME SECURITY
TRAINING COURSE APPROVAL” specified in APPENDIX A, which is based on the IMO
model course format, to the MARAD coordinator. The request will then be reviewed to ensure
that the course meets the standards for the type of training intended.
Training providers who are interested in submitting proposals utilizing
E-Learning as a method of instruction may submit proposals for the MSA
courses only, in accordance with the instructions contained herein.
A.

Course Administration Elements

(1) Curriculum. The content of approved courses should conform to the syllabi of the relevant
IMO model courses, or other model courses that may be approved. Courses should be conducted
as submitted and in accordance with the conditions of the approval as stated in the course
approval letter. Any changes to the initial curriculum should be submitted electronically to the
MARAD coordinator for evaluation and written approval.
(2) Instructor(s). Information regarding instructors should be submitted as part of the initial
request for course approval. Any subsequent instructor changes should be submitted
electronically to the MARAD coordinator for evaluation and written approval.
For E-Learning courses, the course must provide a means of getting prompt feedback and
assistance from someone meeting the same qualification standards as would apply to an instructor
in a “live” course. Student projects and work must be reviewed by an assessor meeting the same
qualification standards.
(3) Records. A training provider offering an approved course should maintain a file at the training
facility, for at least 10 years after the end of each student’s enrollment, containing the student’s
examinations, a report of practical tests administered, and a record of classroom attendance. If
approved courses are taught in more than one location, or if the course is delivered by E-Learning,
the records must be made available on 24 hours notice.
(4) Course Completion Certificates. Course completion certificates should be in the training
provider’s standard format and contain: (1) the name of the course as stated in the course
certification letter; (2) the name of the school or training provider; (3) the date the training began
and was completed; (4) the signatures of the course instructor and director or department head;
and (5) the student’s full name. Training providers will issue a certificate to candidates who
successfully complete maritime security training courses. Training providers should verify the
identification of all students attending certified security training courses and issue consecutively
numbered certificates to students who successfully complete the approved course. Blank course
completion certificates should be kept secure at all times. The paper stock of course completion
certificates should contain micro printing, watermarks and/or other effective measures to help
prevent production of fraudulent certificates. Training providers should consult International
Maritime Organization MSC/Circ. 1089 “Guidance on Recommended Anti-Fraud Measures and
Forgery Prevention Features for Seafarers’ Certificates” available via the IMO website at
www.imo.org.
(6) E-Learning. Additional requirements for utilizing E-Learning as a method of instruction are
provided in Attachment 5.
2

B.

Oversight.

(1) Purpose. Oversight audits may be conducted to verify that the terms of the course approval
letter are followed.
(2) Types of Audits. There are three types of audits that may be conducted: announced,
unannounced and customer survey. An announced audit is conducted when representatives from
the certifying agency inform training course providers that they will attend the course or review
administrative course records prior to doing so. An unannounced audit is conducted when
representatives from the approving agency attend the course anonymously or when
representatives review administrative course records. A customer survey audit is conducted when
representatives of the oversight agency send letters to students to verify that courses are
conducted in accordance with the terms of the course approval.
(3) Results. All audits, except customer surveys, are followed-up by a letter discussing the results
of the audit. Preliminary results will be discussed with training provider personnel prior to the
auditors’ departure from the training site.
C.

Renewal.

(1) Period of Approval. Course approvals are effective for a period of two years; or until the
controlling interest in an approved course is surrendered, sold or otherwise transferred or
conveyed; or until the approval is suspended or withdrawn. Subsequent renewals will be valid for
five years, and may be granted subject to a written request to the approving agency via the
MARAD coordinator.
(2) Renewal Requests. A request for the renewal of a course approval should be submitted at least
90 days before the current approval expires. Courses submitted for renewal shall be in the same
format as the original submission. To facilitate the renewal process, all changes should be
highlighted. If there have been no changes since the last approval, a statement to the effect that the
curriculum, instructors and facilities are the same should accompany the submittal. Renewals are
effective for five years.

3

APPENDIX A
ELEMENTS OF REQUEST FOR MARITIME SECURITY
TRAINING COURSE APPROVAL
The elements listed below comprise a request for course approval. The request and supporting
material shall be submitted electronically to the MARAD Coordinator via the Maritime
Administration’s Virtual Office of Acquisition (VOA) password protected website as follows:
https://voa.marad.dot.gov/programs/mtsa/jump.asp. The MARAD coordinator is Sheila Brown,
MARAD, whose email address is mailto:[email protected]. (Items specified below that can
not reasonably be transmitted electronically by email to the MARAD coordinator, such as text
books, posters and illustrative mock-ups, shall be catalogued in the request for subsequent
verification at the discretion of the MARAD Contractor.) Definitions unique to maritime security
training are provided in ATTACHMENT 4. If your submission utilizes E-Learning as a method of
instruction, you must respond to the elements below and the guidance in ATTACHMENT 5.
,REQUEST FOR APPROVAL: The formal statement of request for course approval will be in the
form of a cover letter from the training course provider to the MARAD coordinator via the VOA
website. A letter of request is required for each course submission. The letter should include: (1)
the name of the course; (2) the location where it will be held; (3) a general description of the
course; and (4) and the specific category(s) of maritime security training (e.g., Vessel Security
Officer, Company Security Officer, Facility Security Officer) that the course is intended to
address. The letter should be addressed to Maritime Administration attention Sheila Brown,
1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E., Washington, DC 20590.
,,COURSE FRAMEWORK: This section provides an overview of the purpose, nature, and
individual components of the course, and should contain each of the following:
$Scope. A brief description of the course.
%Objective. A statement of the goal(s) and learning outcomes of the course.
&Student Identity. A statement that, prior to enrolling students in a security course, the training
provider verifies the identity of students through one of the following forms of photo identification
listed below. The training provider should keep a copy of the identification document in their files.
All documents presented for verification of identity must be unexpired. Training providers should
report suspicious identity documents and/or circumstances to appropriate law enforcement
authorities. Acceptable forms of identification are:
•

U.S. Merchant Mariner Document issued after February 3, 2003

•

STCW 95 Certificate (with embedded photograph),

•

U.S. Passport,

•

Foreign passport,

•

U.S. Armed Forces identification card,

•

Photo Identification cards issued by U.S. federal, state, or local government
agencies, and

•

Driver’s license with photo of the driver issued by a U.S. possession or
commonwealth.

For E-Learning, equivalent arrangements for student identity shall be controlled, provided
and administered at the training provider’s centralized location.
D. Class limitations.
• Class size: State the maximum class size for classroom lessons and, if appropriate,
for practical demonstrations or simulation exercises and assessments, include the
number of the students per simulator.
• Student/teacher ratio: State the student/teacher ratio and discuss the organization’s
policy for circumstances when more than one instructor will be present during any
of the lessons.
• Instructors: Include a list of instructors with a description of their experience,

background and qualifications to demonstrate that they have the subject matter
expertise to interact with students and to answer student questions, as well as the
instructional capability to impart the required information to students. It is
preferred that instructors have attended a course in instructional systems design
and techniques. Any instructor changes should be reported immediately to the
MARAD coordinator for evaluation and written approval.

E. Teaching facilities and equipment.
•

Facility: Include the address and a description of the facility at which the training
will be held. A statement that the site is as represented in the request should be
included and signed by the president or director of the course provider. The
request should include electronic photographs, diagrams or plans of the training
site. Any changes to training site should be submitted to the MARAD coordinator
for evaluation and written approval.

•

Course equipment: Include a description of the equipment that will be used during
the course. This includes all equipment to be used during hands-on training and/or
testing, and any simulators or simulation programs to be used. If a simulator or
simulation program is to be used, include technical specifications and brochures
provided by the manufacturer. Any changes to course equipment should be
submitted to the MARAD coordinator for evaluation.

F. Teaching aids.

III.

•

Visual aids: Include copies of all visual aids and a discussion of how audiovisual
and other aids will be used during the training course, and which performance
objectives they will impact. This information may be a part of the curriculum
documentation that discusses the make up of the lesson plans.

•

Textbooks: Include copies of all student handouts, homework assignments,
workbooks, and a bibliography of textbooks to be used. The MARAD Contractor
may ask for copies of textbooks it does not have access to, and will return the texts
after the course has been evaluated.

ADMINISTRATION AND RECORDKEEPING: Include a detailed description of the
training provider’s organization and infrastructure. Provide evidence of the capability at a
central location to verify and handle student identification and enrollment records,
2

maintain student certificate records and provide qualified expertise to answer student
questions. Describe system for maintaining student records security and methods to
respond quickly and efficiently to student inquiries and administrative requests such as for
duplicate certificates. This is required for both instructor-led and E-Learning methods of
instruction.
IV.

DETAILED TEACHING SYLLABUS: Include a detailed teaching syllabus consisting
of lesson plans for each instructional unit written in learning objectives format in which
the objective describes what the student must do to demonstrate that the specific
knowledge or skill has been learned. The format of any standard educational lesson plan is
acceptable. The lesson plan should include the major teaching points and all required subskills and knowledge. References should be made against the learning objectives to
indicate which publications and teaching aids the instructor may use when preparing and
presenting the lesson. A syllabus is required for all courses, including those given by
E-Learning. See ATTACHMENT 1 for a sample of learning objectives.

V.

COURSE SCHEDULE: Include a course schedule in a format similar to
ATTACHMENT 2. The course schedule should include the length of each lesson and
indicate whether the lesson is a classroom lecture, practical demonstration, simulator
exercise or examination. Each subject matter in the course schedule should be prefaced by
a number that corresponds to the subject area listed in the detailed teaching syllabus and
course outline. For E-Learning, include an estimate of the time required for a student to
complete the course and any applicable time limits for course completion.

VI.

COURSE OUTLINE: Include a course outline, containing a summary of the syllabus by
subject area with the number of hours for each lecture, practical demonstrations, or
simulation program. This shows the focus of the course while highlighting how the course
meets IMO and Coast Guard time requirements. See ATTACHMENT 3 for a sample
course outline.

VII.

INSTRUCTOR MANUAL: Include an instructor’s manual, providing specific guidance
on instructional strategies and techniques appropriate for the educational domain of each
learning objective of each lesson. The manual should address the major components of
each instructional strategy for each lesson identified in the course schedule. An Instructor
Manual is required for all courses including those using E-Learning as the method of
instruction.

VII.

EXAMINATION AND ASSESSMENT:
A. Method of examination: Include an explanation of how the students’ performance
will be evaluated throughout the course. Include whichever is applicable:
•

Written examinations: Copies of all written examinations, the grading procedure to
be used, frequency of revision, and what will be considered a passing score.

•

Practical demonstrations: Detailed descriptions of all practical or simulator
examinations, tests, or exercises that describe the situation presented to the student;
what the students must do to successfully complete each test; and how each
student’s performance will be evaluated and recorded. Provide a separate checklist
to evaluate each practical examination and what is considered a passing score.
This checklist should include the condition under which the practical
demonstration will occur, the behavior to be observed, and the criteria for
successful completion of the demonstration.

3

•

Note: Instructors or training provider personnel should not assist or coach students
in any way during the evaluation process.

B. Determination of final grade. Include a discussion of how the instructor(s) will
determine final grades by proportioning written and practical examination scores as
appropriate.
C. Re-test procedures: Include a description of the training provider’s policy on re-tests
of failed examinations.
D. Course Critique: Include a sample student course evaluation form(s) or the training
provider’s procedures for obtaining student feedback to the school on the effectiveness of
the instruction and instructors.

4

IX.

SUBMISSION Checklist

The following details shall be included in the curriculum submission. Any missing details shall be
explained in the cover letter.
#

Item

Details

A

Cover Letter

Name of the course
Training location
General description of the course
Course operator
Type of course (VSO, CSO etc.)
Contact person, Address, Phone/fax/email, website address

B

Course Framework

Scope (purpose)
Learning objectives
Student identity (statement)
Class size (classroom) not applicable for e-learning
Class size (practical)
Student/teacher ratio
List of instructors and their experience
Description of the facilities incl. statement
List of equipment used (theory/practice/simulation)
System requirements and delivery method (e-learning only)
Visual aids: Copies of OH slides, video, CBT etc. used
References to text books used
Copies of student’s handouts etc.
Arrangements for providing student assistance (e-learning only)
Copy of student’s course completion certificate

C

Administration and
Recordkeeping

Organization and infrastructure description
Evidence of centralized administrative capability
Description of methods to ensure records security

D

Detailed Teaching Syllabus
(DTS)

Written with learning objectives for each subject area
References to teaching aids (equipment, visuals, exercise etc.)
References to relevant pages in text books
Time for each subject area

E

Course Schedule (CS)

Time for each subject area
Subject areas identical with names used in CO, DTS and IM
Indication whether the lesson is theoretical, practical, simulations or examination

F

Course Outline (CO)

Summary of syllabus by subject area
Time for each subject area
Indication whether the lesson is theoretical, practical, simulations or examination

G

Instructor Manual

Specific guidance on teaching strategies and techniques
Lesson plan for each subject area

H

Examination and
Assessment

Explanation on how student’s performance will be evaluated
Copies of written examinations
Grading procedure and pass score
Detailed descriptions of practical assessments incl. checklists
Proportioning of final grade from written and practical tests
Description of re-test procedures

I

Course Critique

Copy of student’s course evaluation form

5

ATTACHMENT 1
SAMPLE LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Learning Objectives
1.

IMO/ILO
Reference

BiblioGraphy

Teaching
Aid

Introduction (1.5 hours)
1.1. Course overview
A1.1

.1 describes the topics and emphasis of the
course
1.2. Competences to be achieved
.1 describes the competences that will be
achieved through completion of the course
1.3. Historical perspective
A1.2 pa. 1.3

.1 describes representative incidents involving
criminal activity in the maritime environment
.2 summarizes incident statistics and discusses
underlying motivation and results
1.4. Current security threats and patterns
.1 identifies threats to the maritime transport
industry, such as:

A1.2 pa. 1.4

¾ piracy and armed attacks
¾ terrorism

B5

¾ contraband smuggling
¾ stowaways and refugees
¾ cargo theft
¾ collateral damage
1.5. Ship and port operations and conditions
.1 characterizes the intermodal nature of
transportation and the interfaces between ships
and other modes
2.

B9

Maritime Security Policy (1.0 hours)
2.1. Relevant international conventions, codes, and
recommendations
.1 lists previous efforts of IMO toward maritime
security, such as MSC/Circ.443, SUA Act, etc.

B3
A1.2 pa. 2.1

.2 describes the rapidity with which IMO acted to
enhance maritime security following 9/11
.3 summarizes the amendments to SOLAS
Chapter XI and the contents of the ISPS Code
2.2. Relevant government legislation and regulations
.1 states the requirements of relevant national
legislation and regulations.
2.3. Definitions
.1 defines
¾ Ship Security Plan
¾ Company Security Officer
¾ Ship Security Officer

A1.2 pa. 2.2

IMO/ILO
Reference

Learning Objectives
¾ Port facility

BiblioGraphy

R1.2 reg. 1

¾ Ship / Port Interface
¾ Ship to ship activity
¾ Port Facility Security Officer
¾ Designated Authority
¾ Recognized Security Organization
¾ Declaration of Security
¾ Security incident
¾ Security Level
¾ the three security levels
2.4. Legal implications of action or non-action by
security personnel
.1 identifies the legal limits of authority and the
obligations of personnel with security duties
2.5. Handling sensitive security-related information
and communications

R1.3 pa. 2.1.9 –
2.1.11

.1 defines security-sensitive information and the
importance of keeping it confidential
B2

B1, B2

3.

Security Responsibilities (1.5 hours)
3.1. Contracting governments
.1 describes the responsibilities of contracting
governments with respect to SOLAS Chapter
XI-2 and the ISPS Code

R1.3 pa. 4

3.2. Recognized Security Organizations
.1 characterizes the role of the Recognized
Security Organization and identifies the extent
of its function

R1.4 pa. 4.3 4.6

3.3. The company
.1 describes the responsibilities of the company
with respect to:
¾ ensuring Master has documents on board
relating to the crewing of the vessel and its
employment
¾ ensuring that the Ship Security Plan contains a
clear statement emphasizing the master’s
authority
¾ designating a Company Security Officer and a
Ship Security officer and ensuring that they are

2

R1.2 reg. 5
R1.3 pa. 6

R1.2 reg. 8
R1.3 pa. 6.1

Teaching
Aid

IMO/ILO
Reference

Learning Objectives
given the necessary support to fulfill their duties
and responsibilities
3.4. The ship
.1 states that the ship shall comply with the
requirements of the Ship Security Plan as per
the security level set

R1.3 pa. 7

3.5. The port facility
.1 states that port facilities shall comply with the
relevant requirements of Chapter XI-2 of
SOLAS and the ISPS Code
.2 states that the port facility shall act upon the
security levels set by the Administration within
whose territory it is located

R1.3 pa. 14

3.6. Ship Security Officer
.1 states that the company shall designate a Ship
Security Officer for each ship
.2 lists the duties and responsibilities of the Ship
Security Officer
3.7. Company Security Officer

R1.3 pa. 12

.1 states that the company shall designate a
Company Security Officer
.2 describes that the person designated as
Company Security Officer may act as Company
Security Officer for one or more ships provided
that it is clearly identified for which ships he is
responsible

R1.3 pa. 11

.3 indicates that the company may designate
several persons as Company Security Officer
provided that it is clearly identified for which
ships each is responsible
.4 lists the duties and responsibilities of the
Company Security Officer
3.8. Port Facility Security Officer
.1 states that the Port Facility Security Officer
shall be designated for each port facility
.2 states that a person may be designated as the
Port Facility Security Officer for one or more
port facilities
.3 lists the duties and responsibilities of the Port
Facility Security Officer
3.9. Shipboard personnel with specific security duties
.1 states that members of the ship’s crew may be
assigned security duties in support of the Ship
Security Plan
3.10. Port facility personnel with specific security duties

3

R1.3 pa. 17

BiblioGraphy

Teaching
Aid

IMO/ILO
Reference

Learning Objectives
.1 states that port facility personnel other than the
PFSO may be assigned security duties in
support of the port facility Security Plan
3.11. Other personnel
.1 States that other shipboard and port facility
personnel may have a role in the enhancement
of maritime security
.2 states that personnel other than ship or facility
personnel may have a role in the enhancement
of maritime security

4

BiblioGraphy

Teaching
Aid

ATTACHMENT 2
SAMPLE COURSE SCHEDULE
Day/Period
Day 1
1
1.1
1.2
1.3

Introduction
Course overview
Competences to be achieved
Historical perspective

2.4 Legal implications of action or
non-action by the Ship Security
Officer
2.5 Handling sensitive securityrelated information and
communications

1.4 CURRENT SECURITY THREATS AND

2 MARITIME SECURITY POLICY
2.1 Relevant international
conventions, codes, and
recommendations
2.2 Relevant government
legislation and regulations
2.3 Definitions

3.8 Port Facility Security Officer
3.9 Shipboard personnel with
specific security duties
3.10 Port facility personnel with
specific security duties
3.11 Other personnel
4

PATTERNS

1.5 Ship and port operations and
conditions

3rd Period (2.0 hours)

2nd Period (1.5 hours)

1st Period (2.0 hours)

3

SECURITY RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 CONTRACTING GOVERNMENTS
3.2 Recognized Security
Organizations
3.3 The company
3.4
3.5
3.6
3.7

THE SHIP
The port facility
Ship Security Officer
Company Security Officer

Ship Security Assessment

4th Period (1.5 hours)

5
5.1
5.2

5.3

4.1 RISK ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

Security Equipment
Security equipment and
systems
Operational limitations of
security equipment and
systems
Testing, calibration and
maintenance of security
equipment and systems

4.2 ASSESSMENT TOOLS
4.3 ON-SCENE SECURITY SURVEYS
4.4 Security assessment
documentation

6
6.1
6.2

Ship Security Plan
Purpose of the Ship Security
Plan
Contents of the Ship Security
Plan

Day/Period
Day 2

1st Period (2.0 hours)
6.3
6.4
6.5

7

Confidentiality issues
Implementation of the Ship
Security Plan
Maintenance and modification
of the Ship Security Plan

Threat Identification,
Recognition, and Response
7.1 Recognition and detection of
weapons, dangerous
substances and devices
7.2 Methods of physical searches
and non-intrusive inspections
7.3 Implementing and coordinating
searches

rd

3 Period (1.5 hours)

2nd Period (1.5 hours)
7.4 Recognition, on a nondiscriminatory basis, of persons
posing potential security risks
7.5 Techniques used to circumvent
security measures
7.6 Crowd management and control
techniques
8 Ship Security Actions
8.1 Actions required by different
security levels
8.2 Maintaining security of the
ship/port interface
8.3 Usage of the Declaration of
Security
8.4 Implementation of security
procedures

2

9

Emergency Preparedness,
Drills, and Exercises
9.1 Contingency planning
9.2 Security drills and exercises
9.3 Assessment of security drills
and exercises

4th Period (2.0 hours)

10.3 Monitoring and control
10.4 Security audits and inspections
10.5 Reporting nonconformities

11
10 Security Administration
10.1 Documentation and records
10.2 Reporting security incidents

Security Training

11.1 Training requirements
11.2 Instructional techniques

ATTACHMENT 3
SAMPLE COURSE OUTLINE
Hours
Subject Area
1.5
Introduction
1.1

Course overview

1.2

Competences to be achieved

1.3

Historical perspective

1.4

CURRENT SECURITY THREATS AND PATTERNS

1.5

Ship and port operations and conditions
1.0

2

MARITIME SECURITY POLICY
2.1

Relevant international conventions, codes, and recommendations

2.2

Relevant government legislation and regulations

2.3

Definitions

2.4

Legal implications of action or non-action by the Ship Security Officer
personnel

2.5

Handling sensitive security-related information and communications
1.5

3

SECURITY RESPONSIBILITIES
3.1

CONTRACTING GOVERNMENTS

3.2

Recognized Security Organizations

3.3

The company

3.4

THE SHIP

3.5

The port facility

3.6

Ship Security Officer

3.7

Company Security Officer

Hours
Subject Area
3.8

Port Facility Security Officer

3.9

Shipboard personnel with specific security duties

3.10 Port Facility personnel with specific security duties
3.11 Other personnel
1.5
4

Ship Security Assessment
4.1

RISK ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

4.2

ASSESSMENT TOOLS

4.3

ON-SCENE SECURITY SURVEYS

4.4

Security assessment documentation
1.0

5

Security Equipment
5.1

Security equipment and systems

5.2

Operational limitations of security equipment and systems

5.3

Testing, calibration and maintenance of security equipment and systems
1.5

6

Ship Security Plan
6.1

Purpose of the Ship Security Plan

6.2

Contents of the Ship Security Plan

6.3

Confidentiality issues

6.4

Implementation of the Ship Security Plan

6.5

Maintenance and modification of the Ship Security Plan

2

Hours
Subject Area
1.5
7

8

9

Threat Identification, Recognition, and Response
7.1

Recognition and detection of weapons, dangerous substances and
devices

7.2

Methods of physical searches and non-intrusive inspections

7.3

Implementing and coordinating searches

7.4

Recognition, on a non-discriminatory basis, of persons posing potential
security risks

7.5

Techniques used to circumvent security measures

7.6

Crowd management and control techniques

Ship Security Actions

1.0

8.1

Actions required by different security levels

8.2

Maintaining security of the ship/port interface

8.3

Usage of the Declaration of Security

8.4

Implementation of security procedures

Emergency Preparedness, Drills, and Exercises
9.1

Contingency planning

9.2

Security drills and exercises

9.3

Assessment of security drills and exercises

1.0

1.0
10 Security Administration
10.1 Documentation and records
10.2 Reporting security incidents
10.3 Monitoring and control
10.4 Security audits and inspections
10.5 Reporting nonconformities

3

Hours
Subject Area
1.5

11 Security Training
11.1 Training requirements
11.2 Instructional techniques

Total:

4

14.0

ATTACHMENT 4
DEFINITIONS
Assessor means a person with relevant experience who is responsible for looking at
evidence/performance and judging whether the candidate has achieved the required
standards.
Company Security Officer (CSO) means the person designated by the Company as
responsible for the security of the vessel or Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) facility,
including implementation and maintenance of the vessel or OCS Facility Security Plan,
and for liaison with his/her respective vessel or Facility Security Officer and the Captain
of the Port, USCG (COTP). The CSO is required to complete maritime security training
under the provisions of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, Chapter XI-2
of SOLAS 74 as amended, the IMO ISPS Code, and relevant U.S. Coast Guard
regulations.
Coordinator means the individual and office that MARAD designates to coordinate the
course approval process.
E-Learning means Computer Based Training or Web Based Training (CBT/WBT)
Facilitator means a person who is appropriately qualified to assist the student in the
training/learning process, whether in person, via email, telephone or other wise.
Facility Personnel with Specific Security Duties means facility personnel who are
assigned specific security duties in connection with a Facility Security Plan (FSP) and
who require maritime security training in order to perform their duties in accordance with
the requirements of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, Chapter XI-2 of
SOLAS 74 as amended, the IMO ISPS Code, and relevant U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
Facility Security Officer (FSO) means the person designated as responsible for the
development, implementation, revision and maintenance of the Facility Security Plan and
for liaison with the COTP and Company and Vessel Security Officers. The FSO is
required to complete maritime security training under the provisions of the Maritime
Transportation Security Act of 2002, Chapter XI-2 of SOLAS 74 as amended, the IMO
ISPS Code, and relevant U.S. Coast Guard regulations. The Facility Security Officer is
the equivalent of the Port Facility Security Officer under the ISPS Code.
IMO means the International Maritime Organization
ISPS Code means the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code, as incorporated
into SOLAS.
Military, First Responder, and Law Enforcement Personnel means military, security, and
law enforcement personnel without prior maritime background who require maritime
security training in order to conduct their duties aboard vessels, in port facilities, and
elsewhere in the marine environment in accordance with the requirements of the
Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002.

Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, Section 109 (MTSA 109) is that Section of
the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 that governs maritime security training
in the United States of America.
Personnel without Specific Security Duties means personnel not otherwise defined in this
part and who are not assigned specific security duties in connection with a Vessel
Security Plan or a Facility Plan. These persons nevertheless operate in the maritime
environment and interface with persons responsible for enhanced security.
Responsible Agency means either the United States Coast Guard or the Maritime
Administration, each of which bears responsibility for approval of specific maritime
security courses developed under Section 109 of the MTSA.
SOLAS means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, as
amended.
Training Provider means an entity that intends to provide maritime security training
under MTSA 109. Training providers - profit or non-profit - must be organized and
authorized to conduct business under the federal laws of the United States, or under the
laws of any state of the United States, and they must conduct the training in the United
States or aboard a United States flag vessel to be eligible for this program.
USMMA means the United States Merchant Marine Academy, the federal service
academy operated by MARAD under the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Vessel Personnel with Specific Security Duties means vessel personnel who are assigned
specific security duties in connection with a Vessel Security Plan and who require
maritime security training in order to perform their duties in accordance with the
requirements of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, Chapter XI-2 of
SOLAS 74 as amended, the IMO ISPS Code, and relevant U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
Vessel Security Officer (VSO) means the person onboard the vessel, accountable to the
Master, designated by the Company as responsible for security of the vessel, including
implementation and maintenance of the Vessel Security Plan, and for liaison with the
Facility Security Officer and the vessel’s Company Security Officer. The VSO is
required to complete maritime security training under the provisions of the Maritime
Transportation Security Act of 2002, Chapter XI-2 of SOLAS 74 as amended, the IMO
ISPS Code, and relevant U.S. Coast Guard regulations. The Vessel Security Officer is
the equivalent of the Ship Security Officer under the ISPS Code.

2

ATTACHMENT 5

Standards Applicable to E-Learning
Method of instruction
Documentation to be Submitted
General
Training providers who are interested in submitting proposals utilizing
E-Learning as a method of instruction may submit proposals for the
MSA course only.
This E-Learning Guideline is in addition to the general documentation required in
MARAD’s “Guidelines for Maritime Security Training Course Providers.”
The following information shall be submitted as basis for the certification of E-Learning
as a method of instruction in conducting maritime security training programs:
a) Cover letter
b) Training course framework, including reference to relevant legislation,
requirements, guidelines, but without information on class limitations, and
teaching aids.
c) Complete script or storyboard for the E-Learning program
d) One copy of the E-Learning program with completed cover, labels and
instructions on how to install and use, as it will be delivered to the end user, as
applicable
e) Description of arrangements for students to obtain assistance, pose questions,
etc. to an instructor or facilitator with appropriate expertise in the course subject
matter.
f) Method of examination and assessment.
Cover letter
The cover letter from the training program provider shall contain the name of the training
course, the location where the student will be undergoing the security training, a general
description of the training course, and why certification is being sought, how it will be
used in the maritime industry and the name of the E-Learning program, and manufacturer
or developer if applicable
Training course framework
The training course framework shall provide an overview of the purpose, nature, and
individual components of the training course:

Scope

A brief description of the course including reference to relevant legislation,
requirements, guidelines, and particular model course

A statement explaining the learning objective(s) of the training course
Learning
formulated as: “After the training the learners shall be able to…”,
objectives and
Learner Outcomes “…demonstrate…” etc. The statement shall include how E-Learning is
appropriate for, and effectively achieves all learning objectives.
Purpose

A description the why the E-Learning method is needed. It should be based
on competence gaps and refer to desired organizational results such as,
improved work processes, attainment of goals or strategies or
implementation of services.

Delivery Method

A description of how the course will be delivered utilizing E-Learning,
including all applicable system and other equipment requirements.

Entry standards
and Student ID

A list of the prerequisites for a learner to attend the training course,
standards for student identification including merchant mariners document,
drivers license, two photos, SSN.

Learner
conditions

A description of the personal, professional and practical factors the learner
is expected to bring into the training situation, such as entry level
competence, computer skills, learning needs, expectations, attitudes, habits
and values based on experience, culture and religion, as appropriate.

Student
Feedback/Assistan
ce

A description of the arrangements for learners to get feedback, request
assistance, or pose questions to an individual having knowledge of the
course and expertise in the subjects taught in the course.

Assessors and
Facilitators

a) The competence requirements for the assessor(s) and facilitator(s) shall
be given.
b) A list of assessors with a description of their experience, background and
qualifications to demonstrate they have the capability to perform assessment
activities. Assessors shall have at least same competence as required for
instructors. This shall be determined by recognized license, diploma or other
evidence.
c) A list of facilitators with a description of their experience, background
and qualifications to demonstrate that they possess the knowledge and
experience sufficient to assist and advise students in the subject matter.

2

Teaching aids

Textbooks: Copies of all learner handouts, homework assignments,
workbooks, and a bibliography of the learner textbooks to be used.

Certificate

A copy of the E-Learning training course completion certificate shall be
included. Certificates shall include the following information:
- E-Learning program title.
- Name of training location or operator (e.g. vessel’s name for ELearning).
- Learner’s name.
- Lead assessor and/or facilitator’s name and signature.
- Date the E-Learning program was completed.
- A unique number corresponding to the E-Learning program
provider’s records of certificates.
- A statement that the E-Learning program conforms to this standard
and or other requirement given elsewhere, if any.

Examination and assessment
This section shall provide an overview of the method of examination, determination of
final grade and procedures for re-testing:
Method of
examination

An explanation shall be included of how the learners’ performance
will be evaluated throughout the training course. It should cover how
the assessments and examinations validate the desired learning
outomes. It should also include proctoring and/or surveillance during
examinations. Include whichever is applicable:
Written examinations: Copies of all written examinations, the grading
procedure to be used, frequency of revision and what will be
considered a passing score. How and where records of exams are
stored.
Practical demonstrations if applicable: Detailed descriptions of all
practical or simulator examinations, tests, or exercises that describe
the situation presented to the learner; what the learners must do to
successfully complete each test; and how each learner’s performance
will be evaluated and recorded. A separate checklist shall be provided
to evaluate each practical examination and what is considered a
passing score. How and where records of assessments are stored.

Determination
of final grade

An explanation of how the trainer(s) will determine final grades by
proportioning written and practical examination scores as appropriate.
How and where records are stored.

3

Re-test
procedures

A description of the training provider’s policy on re-tests of failed
examinations.

Training course critique
E-Learning training course completion evaluation form(s) shall be used to give learners
the opportunity to provide feedback to the learning program provider on the suitability of
the training course.

4