ISM Code

Question 1

What is the ISM Code?

Answer 1

The International Safety Management Code is an international standard applicable to all passenger ships and cargo vessels over 500GT

Question 2

What are the main objectives of the ISM Code?

Answer 2

1. Ensure Safety at Sea
2. Prevent human injury or loss of life
3. Avoid damage to the environment and property

Question 3

Which chapter of SOLAS makes ISM mandatory?

Answer 3

Chapter IX - Management for the safe operation of ships

Question 4

What are the functional requirements of SMS?

Answer 4

SOCREM
1. Safety and environmental policy
2. Operational procedures to keep people safe, property undamaged and prevent pollution
3. Communication lines and data on how to contact the DPA
4. Reporting procedures for accidents and non conformities
5. Emergency procedures
6. Management reviews and audit procedures

Question 5

What is a DPA?

Answer 5

The Designated Person Ashore is responsible for ensuring the safe operation of the ship and acting as a direct link between the ship and highest level of company management

Question 6

What is a Safety Officer?

Answer 6

SSO ensure the safety and health of the crew onboard by checking that health and safety policies as well as COSWP are complied with. Through the use of the SMS a culture of safety and environmental protection can be promoted

Question 7

What is the SMS?

Answer 7

It is a systematic approach to managing safety implemented by the company. It is required to contain SOCREM

Question 8

What is a Document of Compliance (DOC)

Answer 8

Issued to the company after a successful external audit ensuring that the companies SMS complies with the objectives of the ISM Code. It is specific to ship types, Valid for 5 years, and requires annual flag state audits. A copy must be carried onboard the ship

Question 9

What is a Safety Management Certificate (SMC)

Answer 9

• It is issued to each ship after a successful audit
• It certifies that a ship is complying with its SMS
• 5 Year validity with intermidiate audit between 2nd/3rd anniversaries

Question 10

What is an ISM non-conformity

Answer 10

A situation where evidence indicates a specified requirement is not fulfilled

Question 11

What is a MAJOR non-conformity?

Answer 11

A deviation that poses a serious threat to the safety of the crew/ship/environment and requires immediate correction