Safety Management

Question 1

Certificate Requirement

Answer 1

The PSCE verifies that the ship has a valid DOC and SMC, as per Code 13 of reference (v), International Safety Management (ISM) Code, IMO Resolution A.741(18). The DOC is issued to the company responsible for the day-to-day operation of the ship, and attests to that company complying with reference (v). The DOC is issued for a period of up to five years, by the administration or RO, and is subject to an annual verification.

NOTE:

The DOC onboard the ship is a copy, not the original certificate.

The SMC attests to the shipboard management operating as per an approved SMS. The SMC is issued for a period of up to five years, by the administration or RO, and is subject to a mid-period verification between the second and third year of the certificate anniversary.

Additionally, ships are subject to internal safety audits performed by the company or by auditors on behalf of the company, in periods not to exceed 12 months

Question 2

ISM Audit

Answer 2

an audit is more substantial. During an audit, several shipboard processes are audited, personnel questioned, and the findings are documented in an audit report and briefed to the auditee, with an appropriate follow-up period to address nonconformities.

Question 3

External Audit

Answer 3

When detaining due to an ISM-related deficiency, the PSCE can require that an external audit be performed prior to departure. The PSCE examines the external audit report to determine if the auditor recognized the detainable ISM deficiencies as major NC, what immediate corrective actions were taken, and what, if any, additional NC and were observed.

Question 4

ISM Audit Review

Answer 4

PSCE does not have authority to examine internal audit reports, but does have authority to review external audit reports, issued by the RO or administration. When the PSCE requires an external audit as part of an ISM-related detention, he or she reviews the audit report.

When reviewing an audit report and subsequent documentation required by an ISM detention, the PSCE notes what immediate corrective actions were taken to address the major NC.