ISM Code: 16 Elements for Safe Ship Operation
The ISM (International Safety Management) Code is a set of international guidelines for the safe operation of ships and the prevention of pollution. The code was adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 1993 and is mandatory for all passenger ships, oil tankers, chemical tankers, gas carriers, and cargo ships over 500 gross tons.
The ISM Code consists of 16 elements, which are essential for ensuring the safe operation of ships and the prevention of pollution. These elements are:
1. Safety and Environmental Protection Policy
The company should establish a safety and environmental protection policy that defines its commitment to safety and the prevention of pollution.
2. Company Responsibilities and Authority
The company should define the responsibilities and authority of each person on board the ship, including the master, officers, and crew.
3. Designation of Personnel
The company should designate personnel responsible for implementing the ISM Code, including the company safety officer and the ship's safety officer.
4. Training and Drills
The company should provide training and conduct regular drills to ensure that personnel are familiar with emergency procedures and can respond effectively in an emergency situation.
5. Ship Maintenance and Repair
The company should establish a program for the maintenance and repair of the ship, including regular inspections and maintenance schedules.
6. Ship Inspection and Audit
The company should conduct regular inspections and audits of the ship to ensure compliance with the ISM Code and to identify areas for improvement.
7. Reporting of Incidents
The company should establish a system for reporting incidents, including near-misses, accidents, and pollution incidents.
8. Continuous Improvement
The company should establish a system for continuous improvement, including the analysis of incidents and the implementation of corrective actions.
9. Shore-Based Management
The company should establish a system for shore-based management, including the provision of resources and support for the ship.
10. Master's Authority
The master should have the authority to take control of the ship in emergency situations and to make decisions that affect the safety of the ship.
11. Emergency Preparedness
The company should establish a system for emergency preparedness, including procedures for responding to emergencies and procedures for contacting emergency services.
12. Verification, Certification, and Compliance
The company should establish a system for verifying compliance with the ISM Code, including certification and verification by flag states and classification societies.
13. Company Verification of Compliance
The company should conduct regular verifications of compliance with the ISM Code, including internal audits and reviews.
14. Incident Reporting
The company should establish a system for reporting incidents, including procedures for reporting incidents to flag states and classification societies.
15. Continuous Update of the SMS
The company should establish a system for continuously updating the Safety Management System (SMS) to ensure that it remains effective and up-to-date.
16. Document of Compliance
The company should obtain a Document of Compliance from the flag state, which certifies that the company has implemented a SMS that meets the requirements of the ISM Code.
By implementing these 16 elements, ship owners and operators can ensure the safe operation of their ships and the prevention of pollution. The ISM Code is a critical component of international maritime safety and environmental protection regulations.
