Security Duties and Responsibilities Flashcards
7 cards from real SSO practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Security Duties and Responsibilities flashcards as text
A vessel is approached by an unidentified small craft during night hours in a high-risk area. What is the SSO's FIRST priority?
Answer: Increase watch levels, alert the Master, and follow anti-piracy/armed robbery procedures in the SSP
In a potential threat situation, the SSO must immediately heighten vigilance, alert the Master, and activate the relevant SSP procedures for anti-piracy or armed robbery.
What is the purpose of the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) and who is responsible for its activation on board?
Answer: It is a covert alert system to notify authorities of a security threat; the Master or SSO can activate it
The SSAS is a covert distress signal to notify the flag state and CSO of a security threat; the Master or SSO is authorized to activate it.
The SSO is conducting a security inspection of the ship prior to entering port. Which area should receive particular attention regarding potential concealment of illicit items?
Answer: Void spaces, chain lockers, ballast tanks, and other seldom-accessed areas
Void spaces, chain lockers, ballast tanks, and other seldom-visited areas are common locations for concealing weapons, drugs, or stowaways and require thorough inspection.
Under STCW, what minimum training must an SSO have completed, in addition to ISPS Code requirements?
Answer: Ship Security Officer training as specified in STCW Section A-VI/5
STCW Section A-VI/5 specifies the mandatory minimum knowledge, understanding, and proficiency required for persons designated as Ship Security Officers.
If an SSO suspects that a crew member may pose an insider security threat, what is the appropriate course of action?
Answer: Report concerns to the Master and CSO and follow SSP procedures for insider threats without alerting the suspected individual
Suspected insider threats must be reported to the Master and CSO immediately, and SSP procedures should be followed discreetly to avoid alerting the suspect while protecting the ship.
When a ship transits through a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA) or a high-risk area, what additional security measure is the SSO typically expected to implement?
Answer: Implement best management practices (BMP) and heightened watchkeeping, as specified in the SSP for high-risk areas
In high-risk areas, the SSO must implement Best Management Practices (BMP) and heightened security watchkeeping as directed by the SSP and industry guidance.
What is the SSO's responsibility regarding shore leave for crew members while in port?
Answer: The SSO must ensure crew identification is verified upon return and monitor for any security concerns related to shore leave
The SSO must ensure that crew members returning from shore leave are properly identified and monitor for any security risks associated with crew movements ashore.