SSO Security Duties & Emergency Preparedness 3

Question 1

A suspicious package is discovered in the engine room. After alerting the Master, what is the SSO's next priority?

Accepted Answer

Establish a cordon and clear personnel from the area

Answer

Establishing a safety cordon and evacuating nearby personnel minimizes potential casualties while awaiting further response.

Question 2

Which frequency is designated as the international distress and safety calling frequency for VHF radio?

Accepted Answer

VHF Channel 16

Answer

VHF Channel 16 is the internationally designated distress, safety, and calling frequency monitored by all vessels and coast stations.

Question 3

What is the minimum frequency at which security drills must be conducted on a ship under the ISPS Code?

Accepted Answer

At least once every three months

Answer

ISPS Code requires security drills to be conducted at least once every three months to maintain crew readiness.

Question 4

An SSO notices that a section of the ship's perimeter fencing has been cut. What type of security threat does this most likely indicate?

Accepted Answer

A stoker or stowaway attempt

Answer

Cut perimeter fencing is a classic indicator of an attempted unauthorized boarding, potentially for stowaway or piracy purposes.

Question 5

When conducting a security risk assessment, which element does the SSO evaluate to identify critical shipboard operations?

Accepted Answer

Assets, operations, and infrastructure that must be protected if compromised

Answer

A security risk assessment identifies critical assets and operations whose compromise could endanger the ship, crew, cargo, or the environment.

(SSO) Ship Security Officer Practice Test