Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) Fundamentals
| 02 – 06 Feb. 2026, Abu Dhabi | 06 – 10 July 2026, Abu Dhabi |
COURSE OVERVIEW:
Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) Fundamentals is a specialized training program designed to meet the mandatory requirements of the ISPS Code (Part A and B). This course examines the critical role of the PFSO in developing, implementing, and maintaining a Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP). It provides a technical framework for assessing threats, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing effective "Security Levels" to protect the port against terrorism, smuggling, and unauthorized access.
The scope of this training involves the mastery of "Security Assessments" and the utilization of various technologies such as CCTV, X-ray scanners, and biometric access controls. Participants will explore the mechanics of "Ship-to-Shore" security coordination, focusing on the Declaration of Security (DoS) and the interface with the Ship Security Officer (SSO). The program emphasizes the importance of "Physical Security" alongside "Procedural Security" to create a multi-layered defense system.
Coverage includes the legal framework of the IMO, the management of security drills and exercises, and the protocols for handling "Sensitive Security Information" (SSI). The course addresses the nuances of "Crowd Management" during security incidents and the coordination with national intelligence and police forces. By focusing on both regulatory compliance and tactical awareness, this course equips aspiring PFSOs with the expertise needed to manage the security of modern maritime facilities.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
After completion of this course, the participants will be able to:
- Explain the fundamental requirements of the ISPS Code for port facilities.
- Conduct a comprehensive "Port Facility Security Assessment" (PFSA).
- Develop and implement an effective "Port Facility Security Plan" (PFSP).
- Manage "Security Levels" (1, 2, and 3) as per national authority directives.
- Execute the "Declaration of Security" (DoS) with the Ship Security Officer.
- Oversee the operation of access control and screening technologies.
- Conduct systematic security inspections of the port facility.
- Manage security drills and exercises to test response readiness.
- Identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in port IT and communication systems.
- Coordinate with law enforcement and emergency response agencies.
- Implement procedures for handling "Unidentified Objects" and "Bomb Threats."
- Manage "Security Training" and awareness programs for port personnel.
- Lead the "Security Committee" and provide executive security briefings.
TARGET AUDIENCE:
Prospective Port Facility Security Officers, Deputy PFSOs, Port Security Managers, and Law Enforcement Personnel.
TRAINING COURSE METHODOLOGY:
A highly interactive combination of lectures, discussion sessions, and case studies will be employed to maximise the transfer of information, knowledge, and experience. The course will be intensive, practical, and highly interactive. The sessions will start by raising the most relevant questions and motivating everybody to find the right answers. The attendants will also be encouraged to raise more of their questions and to share in developing the right answers using their analysis and experience. There will also be some indoor experiential activities to enhance the learning experience. Course material will be provided in PowerPoint, with necessary animations, learning videos, and general discussions.
The course participants shall be evaluated before, during, and at the end of the course.
COURSE CERTIFICATE:
National Consultant Centre for Training LLC (NCC) will issue an Attendance Certificate to all participants completing a minimum of 80% of the total attendance time requirement.

