How to Be Maritime Security Bodyguard - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 25, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The increase in global maritime trade and associated economic gains has brought with it a new set of security threats. Piracy, terrorism, and illegal fishing are among the most serious worries for those in the maritime industry. As a result, maritime security bodyguards have become an increasingly important part of the security apparatus.

Maritime security bodyguards provide protection to vessels, crews, and other associated personnel while they are in transit or in port. They are trained to use the latest in surveillance, detection, and defensive technologies to identify any potential risks before they can disrupt operations. In addition to providing physical protection, maritime security bodyguards can also act as a deterrence for would-be criminals, allowing for a more secure environment for vessels and personnel.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a valid Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC) from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). This involves completing an application form, providing proof of identity, and undergoing a background check.
Obtain a valid firearm licence from your state or territory police. Depending on the jurisdiction, you may have to pass a safety test and demonstrate competency in firearms handling.
Choose a security company to work for. Look for companies that specialize in maritime security services, and ensure they meet all the relevant licensing requirements.
Complete a security guard training course. This will teach you about conflict resolution, emergency response, crowd control, and other important topics.
Obtain first aid certification. This will enable you to provide medical assistance in an emergency situation.
Complete an approved maritime security guard training course. This will teach you about working on board ships, maritime security operations, and other relevant topics.
Make sure you maintain your MSIC and firearm licenses, and keep up with any relevant changes in the maritime security industry.

Maritime Security Bodyguards must possess a range of skills and capabilities to be successful. They must have the physical strength and stamina to protect their client in any situation. They must also have expertise in weapons and tactics, as well as knowledge of maritime law, safety protocols, and risk management.

they must have excellent communication, problem-solving, and negotiation skills in order to defuse dangerous situations and de-escalate potential conflicts. Finally, Maritime Security Bodyguards must also be aware of their surroundings at all times, remain vigilant and alert, and have the ability to detect potential threats before they occur. When these skills and capabilities are combined together, it allows a Maritime Security Bodyguard to be an ideal and capable protector.

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Job Description

Escort and protect personnel while they are on board a vessel at sea or in port.
Monitor and patrol the vessel and its perimeter to ensure safety and security.
Investigate suspicious activities and take appropriate action when necessary.
Respond to emergency situations and coordinate with other security personnel.
Monitor CCTV cameras and other security monitoring systems.
Provide crowd control for vessel passengers when necessary.
Conduct regular security checks and inspections of the vessel and its equipment.
Ensure proper documentation is completed for all security-related activities.
Train crew members on proper security procedures and protocols.
Provide first aid care when necessary.
Maintain logs and records of all security-related activities.
Report any security violations or breaches to the appropriate authorities.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of maritime security laws and regulations.
Understanding of maritime threats and risks.
Ability to detect suspicious activity and potential threats.
Proficiency in use of security equipment such as CCTV, radar, and other surveillance technologies.
Ability to respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations.
Ability to maintain a high level of situational awareness.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Excellent physical fitness and strength.
Proficiency in martial arts and self-defense techniques.
Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
Knowledge of first aid and CPR techniques.
Knowledge of fire safety procedures and protocols.

Having a Maritime Security Bodyguard requires a high level of skill and expertise. To be successful, it is essential to have a strong physical presence, as well as the ability to quickly assess and respond to potential threats. successful bodyguards must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as an in-depth knowledge of maritime security protocols and procedures.

Lastly, a Maritime Security Bodyguard must be able to stay calm under pressure and remain focused on their mission to protect the client. These skills are essential for creating a secure and safe environment for anyone requiring the services of a Maritime Security Bodyguard. Without them, the safety of the client is at risk.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have as a Maritime Security Bodyguard?
How would you handle a situation involving an unruly passenger onboard a vessel?
What steps do you take to ensure the safety of passengers and crew onboard a vessel?
How would you respond to a hijacking situation?
Describe the measures you take to secure a vessel from pirate attacks?
What is your strategy for responding to suspicious activity in maritime areas?
How would you use non-lethal defensive tactics to contain a threat?
What are the most important qualities of a Maritime Security Bodyguard?
How do you identify potential threats and vulnerabilities onboard a vessel?
What is your experience with maritime laws and regulations related to maritime security?

Common Tools in Industry

Handheld Radio. A portable two-way radio used for communication between personnel. (eg: Walkie Talkie)
Ballistic Vest. A protective garment designed to absorb and/or deflect bullets. (eg: Bulletproof Vest)
Flashlight. A portable electric light used for illumination in dark environments. (eg: Maglite)
GPS System. A satellite-based navigation system used to determine the precise location of a person or vehicle. (eg: Garmin)
Binoculars. An optical device used to magnify objects that are far away. (eg: Bushnell)
Stun Gun. An electrical device that temporarily incapacitates a person through electric shock. (eg: Taser)
Firearm. A weapon designed to fire projectiles at a target. (eg: Glock 17)
Knife. A sharp, bladed tool or weapon used for cutting or stabbing. (eg: Swiss Army Knife)
Night Vision Goggles. A device used for providing visibility in dark environments. (eg: PVS-14)
First Aid Kit. A collection of supplies and equipment used for treating minor injuries and illnesses. (eg: Red Cross Kit)

Professional Organizations to Know

International Maritime Security Association (IMSA)
American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS)
Maritime Security Council (MSC)
International Association of Marine Investigators (IAMI)
International Association of Counter Terrorism and Security Professionals (IACSP)
International Maritime Law Association (IMLA)
International Association of Professional Security Consultants (IAPSC)
American Board for Certification in Homeland Security (ABCHS)
International Association of Professional Security Experts (IAPSE)
International Maritime Security Institute (IMSI)

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Common Important Terms

Risk Assessment. A process of identifying and evaluating potential risks to a ship or its crew. It considers what can be done to reduce the probability of an attack or other security incident occurring.
Security Plan. A comprehensive document that outlines the security measures to be taken by a company or organization to ensure the safety of its personnel, assets, and operations.
Close Protection. A form of security that involves protecting a person from any threats to their physical safety, such as kidnapping, assault, or assassination.
Threat Analysis. The process of assessing the potential for a security breach or attack and determining the appropriate countermeasures.
Intelligence Gathering. The gathering of information about a potential threat or security incident in order to inform decisions about how to respond.
Surveillance. The monitoring of an area or person for the purpose of detecting or preventing security incidents.
Countermeasures. Measures taken to mitigate or prevent a security incident from occurring.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Maritime Security Bodyguard?

Maritime Security Bodyguard (MSBG) is a type of maritime security service that involves personnel providing protection to ships, vessels, and other assets while they are in transit on the open sea.

What are the responsibilities of a Maritime Security Bodyguard?

The primary responsibility of a Maritime Security Bodyguard is to protect the vessel and its crew from any threats, including piracy, terrorism, unlawful boarding, stowaways, sabotage, and other security risks. They are also responsible for monitoring the vessels environment during transit and responding to any security threats that arise.

What qualifications do you need to become a Maritime Security Bodyguard?

To become a Maritime Security Bodyguard, individuals must be physically fit and have knowledge of maritime security operations. They should also have experience in law enforcement or military operations as well as knowledge of international maritime regulations.

How many Maritime Security Bodyguards are typically needed for a vessel?

The number of Maritime Security Bodyguards needed for a vessel depends on the size and nature of the voyage, but typically two to four bodyguards are recommended.

What equipment do Maritime Security Bodyguards use?

Maritime Security Bodyguards use a range of security equipment, including firearms, non-lethal weapons, communication systems, surveillance systems, body armor, and other specialized security gear.