Maritime Training

Maritime training courses provide essential skills for safe and efficient ship operations.

Company Security Officer (CSO)

What You Get

  • Internationally recognized certificate

  • Expert-Level Digital Badge

  • High-quality learning materials

  • Access to the IMT Alumni Portal

Description

Internationally Recognized & Industry-Required Certification

The Company Security Officer (CSO) course is an internationally recognized professional training program, widely required by shipping companies, ship management companies, marine insurers, and port authorities.

In accordance with the ISPS Code, every shipping company must designate a qualified Company Security Officer responsible for the security of the company and its vessels.
This course directly prepares participants to assume this critical and highly demanded role in the global maritime industry.


🌍 Accreditations & Compliance

This course is developed and delivered in full compliance with leading international standards:

  • International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code)
  • International Maritime Organization (IMO)
  • IMO Model Course 3.20 – Company Security Officer
  • Guidelines on Training and Certification of CSOs
  • MSC/Circ. 1154

πŸ“Œ These standards are internationally recognized and required by:

  • Shipping Companies
  • Ship Management Companies
  • P&I Clubs
  • Classification Societies
  • Port Authorities & Marine Insurers

πŸ“ Description

Under the requirements of the ISPS Code, every shipping company is required to appoint a Company Security Officer (CSO) responsible for overseeing all aspects of ship and company security.

A CSO may be responsible for one or more vessels, depending on the size and structure of the company. The role and responsibilities of the CSO are clearly defined within the international regulatory framework.

This course is specifically designed to qualify participants and formally enable them to assume the role of Company Security Officer (CSO).


🎯 Objectives

In accordance with the ISPS Code, IMO Model Course 3.20 (Edition 2011), and the Guidelines on Training and Certification of CSOs (MSC/Circ. 1154), this course aims to:

  • Prepare qualified Company Security Officers in line with international standards
  • Develop a thorough understanding and practical application of the ISPS Code
  • Enhance skills in security risk assessment and management
  • Ensure effective security compliance for companies and vessels

βœ… Minimum Entry Requirements

  • No mandatory prerequisites

  • Open to all participants

  • Strongly recommended for:

    • Maritime industry professionals

    • Individuals seeking to enter the shipping sector

    • Seafarers, port personnel, insurance and maritime service providers

πŸ“Œ The course documentation is designed as a practical reference for future professional use.


πŸ‘€ Who Should Attend

This course is suitable for a wide range of maritime professionals, including:

  • Ship Owners & Ship Operators
  • Ship Managers & Superintendents
  • Shipbrokers & Ship Agents
  • Masters, Chief Engineers & Ship Staff
  • Insurance Companies & P&I Clubs
  • Classification Societies
  • Port Authorities & Coast Guard Personnel
  • Surveyors, Inspectors & Maritime Lawyers
  • Freight Forwarders & Cargo Consolidators

🌍 Participants typically represent more than 10 nationalities, creating a strong international professional network.


⏱️ Duration

  • Total course duration: 52 hours
  • Structured as approximately 8 learning hours per month
  • Each associated assessment can be completed in less than 2 hours
  • Flexible learning, allowing participants to study at their own pace

πŸ“… Timeframe

  • 9 months access to complete the course
  • Extensions (up to an additional 6 months) may be granted upon justified request
  • The system automatically saves progress, allowing learners to resume where they left off

πŸŽ“ Teaching Methods

  • Training aligned with international maritime standards

  • Strong focus on practical application

  • Independent study supported by the learning platform

  • Case-based exercises and assessments

  • Comprehensive preparation for the final evaluation


πŸ’» Modes of Attendance

  • 100% Online

  • Modern and advanced e-learning platform

  • Study anytime, from anywhere


πŸ’Ό Value in the Job Market

βœ”οΈ Certification required by maritime companies
βœ”οΈ Widely used by professionals in their current or new roles
βœ”οΈ Enhances employment and promotion opportunities
βœ”οΈ Adds significant value to professional CVs
βœ”οΈ Essential for ISPS Code compliance

πŸ“Œ The CSO certificate is not optional β€” it is a professional requirement.


πŸ… What You Get

  • Internationally recognized certificate

  • Expert-Level Digital Badge

  • High-quality learning materials

  • Access to the IMT Alumni Portal


πŸš€ Register Now

If you are looking to:

  • Enter the maritime industry with strong credentials

  • Advance your professional position

  • Become a trusted and in-demand security professional

πŸ‘‰ Register now for the Company Security Officer (CSO) course
and join the professionals relied upon by companies worldwide for maritime security.

Frequently Asked Operational Questions

In addition to regulatory understanding, officers often seek clarity on real inspection expectations. This course addresses practical concerns related to onboard interviews, live task demonstrations, and inspector observation techniques.

Participants gain insights into how inspectors assess competence, communication, and procedural awareness during active vessel operations.

What is SIRE 2.0 in tanker vetting?

SIRE 2.0 is the updated Ship Inspection Report Programme framework developed by OCIMF. It introduces a competency-based inspection model focusing on crew behavior, operational performance, and real-time task assessment during tanker inspections.

Who should take this SIRE 2.0 training course?

This course is designed for Masters, Chief Officers, Chief Engineers, tanker crew members, marine superintendents, and vetting departments involved in inspection preparation and compliance management.

Is this course approved by OCIMF?

This training program is aligned with SIRE 2.0 inspection principles and industry best practices. It is an independent professional development course and not directly issued by OCIMF.

Will I receive a certificate after completion?

Yes, participants receive a Certificate of Completion upon successfully finishing the course requirements.

Is SIRE 2.0 mandatory for tanker operators?

While not a statutory regulation, SIRE 2.0 compliance is effectively required by most oil majors and charterers. Tanker vessels must meet SIRE standards to secure commercial approvals and charter opportunities.

How does SIRE 2.0 differ from the previous SIRE regime?

The updated framework shifts from checklist-based inspections to a behavioral and competency-focused model. Inspectors now assess decision-making, communication, and operational readiness rather than documentation alone.

How long does the course take to complete?

The course typically requires 6–10 hours of study depending on the participant’s experience and learning pace. It is fully online and self-paced.

Can this training help reduce vetting observations?

Yes. The course provides practical preparation strategies, risk awareness techniques, and inspection readiness guidance that can help reduce the likelihood of adverse vetting findings.

Related products