The U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) has started issuing certificates regarding cruise vessel security and safety training program providers. Along the process of the voluntary certification, MARAD plans to review various training plans, as well as supporting information in order to determine if they fall in line with the training standards that were established under the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010, which stipulates new security and safety standards for cruise vessels.
Under the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA) of 2010 (Public Law 111-207), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), along with the the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), and the Maritime Administration (MARAD) compiled a long list of model training standards that cover the various aspects of crime prevention, detection, evidence preservation and reporting of criminal activities occurring in the international maritime environment.
Photo: Port of San Diego
The Act in question enables MARAD to certify security and safety training providers that have proven to be up to date with the model standards.
Certain organizations that wish to have their cruise vessel security and safety training programs reviewed and subsequently certified by MARAD as being consistent with the current model standards can voluntarily submit their respective programs to MARAD. This voluntary certification program is aimed at assistting organizations in their numerous efforts to ensure the safety and security of cruise vessel passengers that travel to and from U.S. ports.
Successful training provider applicants of the program will receive certifications that will be effective for a duration of five years. MARAD are going to regularly update their website about the certified training organizations.