What is a Ship Security Officer?
A Ship Security Officer (SSO) is the person on board the ship who is designated by the Company and the vessel’s Master. They are responsible for the overall management and oversight of all shipboard security policies, programs, and procedures and must report to the Master.
If you’re working or planning on working on vessels over 500Gt, it is important to remember that the vessel must be certified in the International Ship and Port Facility Security code (ISPS) and also have a qualified Ship Security Officer onboard.