Guidelines on the Application of the IMO ISM Code, 5th Edition 2020

The International Safety Management (ISM) Code is a key mandatory requirement for merchant ships, critical to the improvement of maritime safety and environmental performance. These guidelines have been rewritten to provide additional advice on the elements of an effective SMS, taking advantage of experience gained since compliance with the ISM Code became mandatory.

 

The new fifth edition of these guidelines includes comprehensive advice on compliance with the ISM Code for anyone involved with developing, implementing and maintaining Safety Management Systems (SMS). This includes shipping company executives, Designated Persons Ashore (DPAs), Masters and all other personnel – shipboard and shore based – with responsibility for ISM related compliance.

 

Modern technology and regulatory developments are addressed, helping users to keep the SMS and its documentation as straightforward as possible. It is recommended that a copy of this publication is in every shipping company office and carried on board every ship worldwide.