Company / Vessel / Facility Security Officer (CSO / VSO / FSO) Training

COURSE OVERVIEW

This course provides training for individuals who may be designated to perform duties and responsibilities as a Company Security Officer (CSO), Vessel Security Officer (VSO), or Facility Security Officer (FSO) under the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA).

Delivered in a virtual, instructor-led format, the course is designed to meet the regulatory training requirements of 33 CFR 104.210 (CSO), 33 CFR 104.215 (VSO), and 33 CFR 105.205 (FSO). Participants receive instruction on applicable maritime security regulations and engage in practical activities to support the development, implementation, and maintenance of vessel, facility, and company security programs.

WHAT THIS COURSE COVERS

This course addresses combined security officer training requirements, including:

• MTSA regulatory framework and U.S. Coast Guard oversight

• Roles and responsibilities of CSOs, VSOs, and FSOs

• Vessel, facility, and company security assessments

• Development, implementation, and maintenance of security plans

• MARSEC levels and corresponding security measures

• Coordination between vessels, facilities, and company leadership

• Security drills, exercises, and training requirements

• Recognition, response, and reporting of security incidents

• Security documentation, recordkeeping, and compliance expectations

Scenario-based discussion and applied exercises are used throughout the course to reinforce regulatory intent and real-world application.

WHO THIS COURSE IS FOR

• Company Security Officers (CSO)

• Vessel Security Officers (VSO)

• Facility Security Officers (FSO)

• Designated alternates or supporting security personnel

U.S. COAST GUARD COURSE APPROVAL

Participants who successfully complete the course receive a certificate indicating U.S. Coast Guard approval, issued in accordance with the Coast Guard approval process and reviewed through the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS).

The Facility Security Officer (FSO) elements of this course are identified as reviewed by the U.S. Coast Guard, consistent with Coast Guard policy, as the Coast Guard does not formally certify FSO courses. The CSO and VSO elements meet applicable U.S. Coast Guard–approved training requirements.

ELIGIBILITY

This course is open to personnel who meet one or more of the following criteria:

• Currently employed by, or seeking employment with, a reputable maritime organization

• In possession of a letter from an owner or operator attesting to assigned or prospective security duties

• Licensed mariners

• Students pursuing maritime-related education or credentials

• Other individuals from approved or relevant sources supporting maritime security operations