Key takeaways
- ✓PDSD (Proficiency in Designated Security Duties) is the STCW security training under section A-VI/6-2 for crew who have security tasks in the ship security plan.
- ✓It builds on the ISPS Code, which applies to passenger ships and to cargo ships of 500 GT and above on international voyages — commercial yachts of that size are normally covered too.
- ✓Crew without designated security duties need security awareness training (A-VI/6-1); PDSD covers awareness too.
- ✓The Ship Security Officer (SSO) course is a separate, higher-level certificate for the officer in charge of security.
- ✓Most training centres run PDSD as a one-day course; check that the course is approved by your flag state.
The three STCW security levels
| Certificate | STCW reference | Who needs it |
|---|---|---|
| Security awareness | A-VI/6-1 | All seafarers on ISPS ships without designated security duties |
| PDSD — designated security duties | A-VI/6-2 | Crew with tasks in the ship security plan (gangway watch, access control, searches) |
| Ship Security Officer (SSO) | A-VI/5 | The officer responsible for the ship security plan on board |
What the course covers
- •The ISPS Code, security levels 1–3 and the ship security plan
- •Recognising security threats, weapons and dangerous substances
- •Access control, gangway watches, and searching people, baggage and stores
- •Handling stowaways, piracy threats and security drills
- •Reporting security incidents and keeping security records
Why yacht crew take it
Commercial yachts of 500 GT and above that go on international voyages must follow the ISPS Code, and their crew need the matching STCW security training. Captains often prefer crew who already hold PDSD, so they can be put on gangway watch from day one.
For smaller or private yachts it is not always required, but it is cheap, short and makes a junior CV more complete next to STCW Basic Safety Training, an ENG1 and Powerboat Level 2.
Under STCW the PDSD certificate does not need regular refresher training, but flag states and employers can set their own rules. Keep the original certificate with your other STCW documents.
Frequently asked questions
What is PDSD?+
Proficiency in Designated Security Duties — STCW security training (section A-VI/6-2) for seafarers who have security tasks in the ship security plan.
Is PDSD the same as security awareness?+
No. Security awareness (A-VI/6-1) is the basic level for all crew. PDSD is higher and covers crew with designated security duties; it also meets the awareness requirement.
How long is the PDSD course?+
Most training centres run it as a one-day course. Some offer approved online versions — check that your flag state accepts the provider.
Do I need PDSD to work on a superyacht?+
On commercial yachts of 500 GT and above on international voyages, crew with security duties need it, and many captains ask all deck crew for it. Smaller yachts may not require it.
Sources
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