This week’s blog looks at Personnel with Security Duties and All Other facility personnel, with an emphasis on their roles in the facility’s security organization.

33 CFR 105 is a performance-based law, which requires that personnel not only know their responsibilities, but also demonstrate that they are capable of performing their roles. The FSO is responsible to ensure Personnel with Security Duties (PSD) and All Others (AO) have this required knowledge through training or job experience. This is where a lot of facilities receive discrepancies during their annual Coast Guard inspection, because employees do not receive regular training outside of their initial security training during orientation when first hired.

Building a security culture needs a security training program that is executed regularly and this falls on the FSO. PSDs are required to know 14 elements outlined in 33 CFR 105.210, and AOs are responsible for six elements outlined 33 CFR 105.215. This is where a thorough training program is needed and a dedicated FSO makes the time to ensure all the employees receive regular training.

An industry best practice known as a “Security Moment,” is similar to a Safety Briefing that occurs prior to many meetings at facilities whose culture focuses on safety. In the case of a Security Moment, a security awareness building requirement can be re-emphasized. The FSO can also take 10-15 minutes during All-Hands meetings and provide brief training on one or two of the required security elements. Another best practice is “Just in Time” training, such as sending reminder emails with required security information that will enhance security awareness prior to a scheduled Coast Guard inspection.