ISM Codes and its Contents

"International Safety Management (ISM) Code” means the International Management Code for the Safe Operation of Ships and for Pollution Prevention as adopted by the Assembly, as may be amended by the Organization. 

The objective of the ISM Code:

The objective of the ISM code is to ensure the safety of the sea, prevention of human injury or loss of life, and avoidance of damage to the environment, in particular, to the marine environment, and to the property.

The safety management objectives of the company shall be such that:

• provide safe practices in ship operation

• provide a safe working environment

• to assess all identified risks to its ship, personnel, and the environment and establish appropriate safeguards.

• to continuously improve the safety management skills of personnel ashore and aboard ships to prepare for emergencies related both to safety and environmental protection.

Functional Requirements for a Safety Management System (SMS):

Every company should develop, implement and maintain a Safety Management System (SMS) which includes the following requirements:

• a safety and environmental protection policy.

• instructions and procedures to ensure the safe operation of ships and protection of the environment in compliance with relevant international and flag-state legislation.

• defined levels of authority and lines of communication between, and amongst, shore and shipboard personnel.

• procedures for reporting accidents and non-confirmities with the provisions of this code.

• procedures to prepare for and respond to emergency situations.

• procedures for internal audits and management reviews.

Contents of ISM Code:

Part A - Implementation

1. General

2. Safety and Environmental Protection Policy ( click here to know more)

3. Company Responsibilities and Authority (click here to know more)

4. Designated Person(s) (click here to know more)

5. Master's Responsibilities and Authority (click here to know more)

6. Resources and Personnel

7. Shipboard Operations

8. Emergency Preparedness

9. Reports and Analysis of Non-conformities, Accidents, and Hazardous Occurrences

10. Maintenance of the Ship and Equipment

11. Documentation

12. Company Verification, Review, and Evaluation

Part B - Certification and Verification

13. Certification and Periodical Verification

14. Interim Certification

15. Verification

16. Form of Certificates

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Reference: 

1. IMO Publications & Documents - International Codes - ISM Code
2. IMO Publications & Documents - Resolutions - Assembly - Resolutions A.741(18).