STCW Security Awareness (PSA) Course

About This Course

Under the ISPS Code, there is a minimum security certification requirement for anyone working onboard or frequenting a vessel often. This fully online, ISPS Code compliant, Maritime & Coastguard Agency (STCW & ISPS) Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA) Course, is the mandatory, minimum training requirement under STCW ISPS for members of a Ship’s Crew or Staff who do not have assigned designated security duties on board ship. For information on the course Awarding Body and Certification, please view the Certification Tab.

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Contribute to the enhancement of maritime security through heightened awareness
2. Be able to recognise and report a security threat
3. Understand the need for, and methods of, maintaining security awareness and vigilance

Regulations Addressed

• The Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB) Security Courses Criteria (2nd Edition)
• Regulation VI/6 para 1, and Section A-VI/6, para 4 of the STCW Convention and Code (2010)
• International Maritime Organization (IMO) Model Course 3.27
• The International Ship and Port Facility (ISPS) Code 2004, as amended (STCW Table A-VI/6-1)

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 associated official Assessment, Learners will receive an electronic security-encrypted version of your official course certificate (in secure PDF format). Certificates are usually emailed to the Learner within 24 to 48 hours of confirmation of the course results, or the next working day if the course is successfully completed on a Friday.

Awarding Body

The Security Awareness (PSA) Course is fully Approved by the UK DfT Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) and is internationally recognised and accepted. It includes the 2010 Manila Amendments and meets the requirements of Section A-VI/6, paragraphs 4 of the STCW Convention and Code, and Table A-VI/6-1.

Hardcopy, Embossed Stamped Certificate

Learners may also request an embossed stamped, hardcopy certificate to be posted to their home address. Please note that VIRSEC is not responsible for any loss or delay of the certificate once it has been dispatched to Royal Mail. Should a Carrier Service be requested, then the relevant charges will be applied, and all payments must be made before the certificate is posted.

Certification Renewal

Under the Awarding Body (Maritime & Coastguard Agency), there are currently no expiry dates placed on the (STCW ISPS) Proficiency in Security Awareness course certificates. Learners do not currently have to undertake a refresher or re-certification of this course unless directed to do so by the company they are working for.

Expedited Course Certificate Service

Should a Learner require the certificate to be expedited, either after office hours, at weekends, during holidays, or other means, a surcharge of £49.95 GBP (+VAT) will be charged and sent by Secure Payment Link. Please note that all payments must be made before the certificate is sent.