What is a Company Security Officer (CSO)?

A Company Security Officer is the person appointed by a shipping company to ensure that ships under its management comply with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, focusing to keep safe vessels, crew, cargo, and company assets from security threats.

Position & Role

1. The CSO works from the company office (not onboard permanently)
2. Oversees security of all ships operated by the company
3. Supports and supervises the Ship Security Officer (SSO) onboard

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      Main Duties & Responsibilities of a CSO

1. Ensures a Ship Security Assessment is carried out for each vessel
2. Identifies security risks like piracy, terrorism, stowaways, sabotage
3. Develops, submits, and maintains the Ship Security Plan
4. Ensures the SSP complies with ISPS Code requirements
5. Makes sure SSP is approved by the Flag State or RO
6. Provides guidance and instructions to the SSO
7. Ensures the SSO is properly trained and familiar with duties
8. Acts as the main contact for security advice
9. Coordinates actions for Security Level 1, 2, and 3
10. Ensures ships receive timely instructions when security level changes
11. Ensures:
    1. Ship security drills are conducted
    2. Crew receive security awareness training
12. Verifies records of drills and exercises
13. Acts immediately in case of:
    1. Security breach
    2. Piracy attempt
14. Coordinates with flag state, port authorities, and company management
15. Ensures vessels are ready for:
    1. ISPS inspections
    2. Port State Control (PSC)
16. Keeps security records properly maintained

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CSO vs SSO (Quick Difference)

CSO	SSO
Shore-based	Ship-based
Responsible for company ships	Responsible for one ship
Prepares & approves SSP	Implements SSP onboard
Company-level authority	Ship-level authority

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 Why the CSO Is Important

1. Prevents security threats before they escalate
2. Ensures ISPS compliance