Security Awareness Training (SAT) is mandatory for all crew members on ships required to comply with the provisions of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. It is regulated by STCW Convention Regulation VI/6, paragraph 1, and STCW Code Section A-VI/6, paragraphs 1-3.

The purpose of this training is:

• To ensure that every seafarer, regardless of their rank or duties (including hotel staff on passenger ships, cadets, etc.), has a basic understanding of the importance of ship security and their role in maintaining it.
• To enhance the overall security culture and vigilance on board the vessel.
• To teach how to recognize potential security threats and know how to react correctly and whom to report to.

Who must undertake this training:

All persons employed or engaged in any capacity on board a seagoing ship to which the ISPS Code applies. This training must be completed before being assigned any shipboard duties, unless the seafarer can demonstrate equivalent prior training or service on a ship before the ISPS Code requirements came into force.

Key Content of the Course (What seafarers are taught):

1. Importance of Ship Security: Understanding why security is important and the potential consequences of security incidents (e.g., for human life, the ship, cargo, the environment, company reputation).
2. Roles and Responsibilities: A general understanding of the duties of various organizations and individuals responsible for security (Company Security Officer - CSO, Ship Security Officer - SSO, Port Facility Security Officer - PFSO, other crew members).
3. Security Levels: What Security Levels 1, 2, and 3 mean, and the general types of measures that may be implemented at each level. Seafarers must understand how a change in security level affects procedures on the ship.
4. Ship Security Plan (SSP): A general understanding of what the SSP is and why it is needed, without disclosing confidential details. Knowledge of procedures relevant to their personal duties (if any, even the most basic ones).
5. Threat Recognition: The ability to recognize potential security threats, such as:
   • Weapons, explosives, and incendiary devices.
   • Signs that someone might pose a threat (suspicious behavior).
   • Signs of unauthorized access.
   • Methods used to overcome security measures.
6. Actions upon Threat Detection: Knowledge of procedures for reporting suspicious activities, persons, or objects to the Ship Security Officer or another authorized person.
7. Security Procedures: Understanding basic access control procedures, screening, the need for vigilance during watchkeeping and routine duties.
8. Security Equipment: General awareness of the types of security equipment that may be used on the ship.
9. Emergency Contingency Plans: Basic knowledge of security-related emergency contingency plans.

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Why is this important for everyone?

Every person on board is part of the ship's security system. Even if a seafarer does not have specific security duties (like gangway watch), they might be the first to notice something suspicious during their normal work or rest periods. Their vigilance and knowledge of how and whom to report their observations to can prevent a serious incident. Therefore, a basic understanding of security matters is essential for everyone without exception.