VPDSD - Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (HOUSTM-747)

Any applicant who has successfully completed your Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD) (HOUSTM-747) course will satisfy: The VPDSD training requirements of 46 CFR 12.625(a)(1); AND The VPDSD standards of competence required by STCW Code Section A-VI/6 paragraph 6 and Table A VI/6-2, as amended 2010, meeting the National Assessment Guidelines from NVIC 21-14(Ch-1).

The Code of Federal Regulations 46 CFR 10.403(a)(3) requires training to be administered entirely in the English language unless specifically approved to be presented in another language. Students must be able to read and write in English to take the written exam and successfully complete the course.

Upon successful completion of this training, the trainee will demonstrate the knowledge and proficiency required to perform designated security duties in accordance with the Ship Security Plan (SSP) and applicable requirements of STCW Regulation VI/6 and the ISPS Code. The trainee will be able to: • Describe current maritime security threats, risks, and patterns. • Recognize and identify weapons, dangerous substances, and prohibited devices that may pose a security threat. • Recognize, on a non-discriminatory basis, characteristics and behavioral patterns of individuals who may threaten the security of a vessel, personnel, cargo, or port facility. • Describe techniques used to circumvent established security measures and procedures. • Demonstrate knowledge of crowd management and control techniques during normal and emergency operations. • Communicate effectively using security-related communication methods and reporting procedures. • Explain shipboard emergency procedures and contingency plans related to security incidents and threats. • Demonstrate knowledge of the operation and use of security equipment and systems. • Describe procedures for the testing, calibration, inspection, and at-sea maintenance of security equipment and systems. • Apply inspection, control, and monitoring techniques to maintain vessel security. • Demonstrate knowledge of methods used to conduct physical searches of persons, personal effects, baggage, cargo, and ship's stores in accordance with established security procedures.

Contents follow NVIC 21-14 which cover: - Maritime Security Policy - Security Responsibilities - Ship Security Assessment - Security Equipment - Threat Identification, Recognition, and Response - Ship Security Actions - Emergency Preparedness, Drills, and Exercises - Security Administration - Crowd Management and Control Techniques