SSO Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield SSO facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which device is used to monitor access to restricted areas on a ship? → CCTV system
2. When must a Ship Security Assessment be conducted? → Before creating the Ship Security Plan
3. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Cost & Pricing Analysis for SSO professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
4. What should a Ship Security Officer do immediately upon receiving credible information about a specific threat to the vessel? → Notify the Master and Company Security Officer and implement appropriate security measures
5. Which of the following is considered a primary threat category in maritime security risk assessment? → Acts of terrorism or piracy
6. Which of the following is a required element in a Ship Security Plan? → Security procedures and duties
7. What action should a Ship Security Officer (SSO) take during a Security Level 3 situation? → Follow directives and implement maximum precautions
8. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Federal Acquisition Regulations? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
9. What is a 'vulnerability' in the context of a Ship Security Assessment? → A weakness that could be exploited by a threat actor
10. Which action is part of a security patrol conducted by shipboard personnel? → Monitoring access to restricted areas
11. What should be done if an unauthorized person is found in a restricted area? → Confront and report per the Ship Security Plan
12. When conducting a threat assessment, the SSO should consider which combination of factors? → The ship type, cargo, trading routes, and regional threat intelligence
13. When a conflict arises between standard procedures and a unique situation in Contract Types & Administration, what should a SSO professional prioritize? → Safety and ethical obligations while seeking expert consultation
14. Which level of security under the ISPS Code indicates an increased risk of a security incident? → Security Level 2
15. When a conflict arises between standard procedures and a unique situation in Performance Monitoring & QA, what should a SSO professional prioritize? → Safety and ethical obligations while seeking expert consultation
16. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Cost & Pricing Analysis? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
17. Why is post-incident reporting important? → To document actions and improve procedures
18. What is the primary responsibility of crew members during a security emergency? → Follow Ship Security Plan procedures
19. What is the primary purpose of a Ship Security Assessment (SSA)? → To identify vulnerabilities and threats to the ship
20. What is the purpose of the Declaration of Security (DoS)? → To document shared security responsibilities
21. Why are security drills conducted on board ships? → To improve emergency response readiness
22. What should be the immediate action during a bomb threat onboard? → Report and follow SSP procedures
23. What is a primary responsibility of the Ship Security Officer during an incident? → Coordinating security response and communication
24. In Source Selection & Evaluation, what is the FIRST step a SSO professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
25. What is the primary purpose of a Ship Security Assessment (SSA)? → To identify security threats and weaknesses
26. Which organization developed the ISPS Code? → International Maritime Organization
27. In Performance Monitoring & QA, what is the FIRST step a SSO professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
28. What should be done if a suspicious package is found on board? → Evacuate and notify the SSO
29. Which body is responsible for approving a ship's Security Plan under the ISPS Code? → The flag state Administration or a Recognized Security Organization acting on its behalf
30. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Contract Types & Administration? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances