STCW Basic Safety Training vs Security Awareness Training
Two STCW Code requirements that are often confused. BST (A-VI/1) is the four-module safety baseline every seafarer holds; Security Awareness (A-VI/6-1) is the ISPS-Code-driven anti-terrorism + access-control training.
Side-by-side
| Criterion | Basic Safety Training (BST) STCW Code A-VI/1 — four modules | Security Awareness Training (SAT) STCW Code A-VI/6-1 — single module |
|---|---|---|
| STCW reference | A-VI/1 (PST, FPFF, EFA, PSSR) | A-VI/6-1 |
| Who needs it | Every seafarer on a commercial vessel | Every seafarer on an ISPS-regulated vessel (effectively all SOLAS vessels >500GT internationally) |
| Modules | 1. Personal Survival Techniques (PST). 2. Fire Prevention + Fire Fighting (FPFF). 3. Elementary First Aid (EFA). 4. Personal Safety + Social Responsibilities (PSSR) | Single ISPS-focused module |
| Course length | ~5 days (in-person, practical components) | ~1 day (often available online for the awareness level) |
| Refresher cycle | PST + FPFF refresher every 5 years (2010 Manila Amendments) | No refresher cycle (refresh recommended every 5 years) |
| Practical assessment | Required — pool, breathing apparatus, fire training | Knowledge-based only |
| Typical cost | Highly variable by country (often employer-paid) | Lower — often single-day course |
Who each suits
- Basic Safety Training (BST)
Every seafarer. There's no commercial vessel scenario where BST isn't required.
- Security Awareness Training (SAT)
Every seafarer on an ISPS vessel. Designated Security Duties (A-VI/6-2) is the next level up for crew with specific ISPS responsibilities.
Pros and cons
Basic Safety Training (BST)
Pros
- Skills you'll actually use — fire, survival, first aid.
- Practical assessment builds real competence.
- Mandatory + recognised globally.
Cons
- 5 days + cost can be high in some countries.
- Refresher every 5 years on PST + FPFF.
Security Awareness Training (SAT)
Pros
- Fast (1 day).
- Often available online.
- No refresher cycle required.
Cons
- Often treated as a box-tick.
- Doesn't cover Designated Security Duties (A-VI/6-2 separate).
Common misunderstandings
- 'They're the same thing.' No — different STCW Code references, different content, different module count.
- 'You only need one.' Both are independently required.
- 'BST never expires.' PST + FPFF require 5-yearly refreshers under the 2010 Manila Amendments. EFA + PSSR usually don't.
Related
Primary sources
High confidence
Last verified