Course Purpose Statement
The Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties certification develops specialized competencies for crew members assigned specific security responsibilities aboard vessels subject to the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code. This program prepares maritime personnel to perform enhanced security monitoring, operate detection equipment, and implement specialized security procedures while maintaining operational effectiveness and contributing to comprehensive vessel security measures.

Comprehensive Learning Outcomes
Students master enhanced security monitoring techniques including systematic patrol procedures, suspicious activity recognition, and detailed security observation protocols for identifying potential threats to vessel operations. The curriculum covers operation of security detection equipment including x-ray machines, metal detectors, explosive detection devices, and surveillance systems used for cargo and passenger screening procedures. Participants develop proficiency in access control implementation, visitor escort procedures, and restricted area security management while maintaining operational efficiency. Training encompasses security inspection techniques for cargo holds, accommodation areas, and machinery spaces, documentation requirements for security incidents, and coordination procedures with vessel security officers during security operations. Students learn to implement security searches, manage security equipment maintenance, and execute emergency security procedures while maintaining professional conduct and operational security protocols.

Advanced Security Equipment and Detection Systems
Training utilizes professional-grade security detection equipment including walk-through metal detectors, handheld detection devices, and x-ray screening systems identical to equipment deployed aboard commercial vessels subject to security regulations. Students practice with surveillance equipment including closed-circuit television systems, motion detection devices, and communication equipment used for security coordination. The program features hands-on experience with access control systems, security barrier equipment, and identification verification technologies used in vessel security operations. Practical exercises utilize realistic security scenarios including cargo inspection procedures, passenger screening operations, and security patrol techniques using actual security equipment and detection systems.

International Security Regulatory Compliance Framework
This course satisfies specialized security training requirements established under the International Maritime Organization's International Ship and Port Facility Security Code for personnel with designated security duties. The program meets United States Coast Guard security training standards outlined in 33 CFR Part 104 and incorporates Transportation Security Administration guidelines for maritime security operations. Training components comply with Department of Homeland Security requirements for maritime security personnel and integrate international security protocols for vessel security operations. All competency demonstrations meet enhanced security standards for personnel performing specialized security functions aboard vessels subject to international security regulations.

Enhanced Security Certification and Specialized Credentials
Upon successful completion, graduates receive Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties certification qualifying them for specialized security positions aboard vessels requiring enhanced security measures including passenger ships, cargo vessels, and offshore installations subject to heightened security protocols. This advanced security certification demonstrates competency in specialized security operations essential for security team positions, enhanced screening assignments, and vessel security roles requiring technical equipment operation. The VPDSD credential enhances career opportunities aboard high-security vessels, cruise ships, and commercial operations requiring sophisticated security capabilities and personnel with specialized security training.

Specialized Maritime Security Expertise
The Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties certification represents advanced specialization in maritime security operations, ensuring graduates possess the technical competencies, security awareness, and operational skills necessary to perform sophisticated security functions while contributing effectively to comprehensive vessel security measures designed to protect maritime transportation systems from security threats and maintain safe maritime operations.