Having spent over 15 years in the maritime and compliance world, and a further decade working with various international Flag Administrations, I’ve seen firsthand the shift from traditional shipping operations to a more safety- and systems-driven industry. One of the major forces behind that transformation? The International Safety Management (ISM) Code. For maritime operators today, ISM Code compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about embedding a culture of safety, responsibility, and continual improvement into every layer of their operation.
What is the ISM Code?
There is a saying that regulations are written in blood. The ISM Code was born out of hard lessons learned from major marine accidents. The major event that acted as a catalyst in its development was the MV Hearld of Free Enterprise. Introduced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) under the SOLAS convention, the code mandates that every shipping company operating SOLAS compliant vessels implement a Safety Management System (SMS), a system that governs practices for the safe operation of ships and prevention of marine pollution.
I remember when the ISM Code first rolled out in the ’90s. Many shipowners were skeptical, and some even resistant. Back then, I was sailing with a company who was navigating the early implementation. The real challenge was shifting the mindset, from reactive firefighting to proactive risk management. From a documentation exercise to a shift in the way operations were done. That’s where I learned: policies are easy to write, but real compliance starts with people.
Why ISM Code Compliance Matters More Than Ever
Today, ISM Code compliance is not optional—it’s foundational. For operators navigating increasingly complex global regulations, it offers several key benefits:
- Safety First: The SMS serves as a blueprint for safe operations at sea. I’ve seen it reduce incidents dramatically when implemented properly.
- Environmental Responsibility: With public scrutiny and environmental regulations tightening, having structured pollution control measures is non-negotiable.
- Credibility & Trust: In one of my past sailing tenures with a major operator, ISM compliance helped secure long-term contracts with charterers. Clients want to work with companies that can prove they’re managing risks responsibly.
- Operational Clarity: When roles, responsibilities, and procedures are clearly outlined, decision-making becomes faster and more consistent.
The Core Objectives of the ISM Code
The ISM Code objectives listed in clause 1.2 remain as relevant now as when the code was first introduced. Clause 1.2 is about outcomes, not just documents. It’s about creating a system that actually prevents harm, not just reacts to it.
For me, ISM Code compliance under Clause 1.2 isn’t just about passing an audit, it’s about building a culture where every person onboard understands their role in safeguarding lives, the vessel, and the environment. It requires integrating risk assessments into planning, ensuring safe working practices, maintaining the ship properly, and always being prepared for emergencies.
I always emphasize these objectives when training ship and shore staff. It’s not about overwhelming them with paperwork, it’s about aligning them with a purpose. The code provides the structure; we provide the commitment.
Key Elements of ISM Code Compliance
A fully compliant SMS includes:
- Safety and Environmental Protection Policy
- Defined Roles and Responsibilities
- Safe Operating Procedures
- Emergency Preparedness
- Reporting and Analysis of Incidents
- Internal Audits and Continuous Improvement
One of the best implementations I facilitated was for a regional bulk carrier. We not only developed the vessel SMS but aligned office procedures, and built an SMS that didn’t just sit in a manual, it lived on the bridge, in the boardroom and in the daily practices of personnel.
The Compliance Process for Maritime Operators
Getting compliant involves more than a checklist. Here’s a simplified roadmap:
- Gap Analysis – Review what you already do and what the code expects. Does it reflect the operational reality or is it a fictional system?
- SMS Development/Update – Build or refine your safety management system. Comprehensive reviews when done after many years can lead to a reduction in documentation by over 20 percent.
- Training & Awareness – Everyone onboard and ashore must know their part. How do they contribute to the effectiveness of the system.
- Certification – Obtain the Document of Compliance (DOC) and Safety Management Certificate (SMC) through audits.
- Ongoing Monitoring – Regular internal audits and management reviews keep the system alive and evolving.
Common Challenges in ISM Code Compliance
Let’s be real, compliance has its hurdles:
- Top-down Disconnect: Without leadership buy-in, the SMS becomes a box-ticking exercise.
- Crew Resistance: “We’ve always done it this way” is a common attitude.
- Training Gaps: If your crew doesn’t understand the ‘why’ behind procedures, they won’t follow them.
- Audit Fatigue: Poor recordkeeping and rushed preparation can derail audits.
My advice? Keep it simple. Make procedures practical, not bureaucratic. Involve the crew in developing routines. That’s how you make compliance sustainable.
The Future of ISM Code Compliance and Technology’s Role
The maritime industry is changing fast. Digital tools are making compliance easier and smarter:
- Cloud-based SMS systems offer real-time updates and reduce paperwork.
- Remote audits became mainstream during the pandemic—and they’re here to stay. Where a full remote audit is not feasible consider hybrid audits.
- Data analytics can identify patterns in incidents and help prevent them.
- Mobile apps for onboard reporting are empowering seafarers to be active players in the compliance process.
Look at mistake proofing of the system. So even if a human wanted to make an error the system would prevent it.
In Conclusion, ISM Code compliance isn’t just about certificates. It’s about creating a safety culture that protects your people, your assets, and the environment. For maritime operators willing to invest the effort, the returns in safety, efficiency, and reputation are well worth it.
If you’re a maritime operator looking to simplify or strengthen your ISM safety management system, I’m happy to share more from my experiences. As someone who’s walked ship decks, sat in boardrooms, worked with Flag Administrations and led audits, I believe that compliance done right isn’t a burden—it’s a competitive advantage.
