Aims and
Objectives of the
ISM Code and
SMS
International Safety
Management Code & Safety
Management System Overview
The ISM Code is part of SOLAS
Chapter IX, developed by the IMO.
It provides an international standard
Introduction for the safe management and
to ISM Code operation of ships.
Focuses on preventing human injury
or loss of life, and avoiding damage
to the environment and property.
Aims of the ISM Code
Ensure Ensure safety at sea for crew, vessel, cargo, and passengers.
Prevent Prevent human injury or loss of life.
Avoid Avoid damage to the marine environment and to property.
Establish Establish a safety culture within shipping companies.
Objectives of the ISM Code
Provide safe practices in ship operation and a safe
Provide working environment.
Assess all identified risks to ships, personnel, and the
Assess environment, and establish safeguards.
Continuously improve safety management skills of
Improve personnel ashore and aboard ships.
What is a Safety Management
System (SMS)?
A structured and documented system enabling company
personnel to implement the ISM Code effectively.
Ensures compliance with mandatory rules and
regulations.
Provides guidelines for emergency preparedness and
environmental protection.
Objectives of the SMS
Define levels of authority
Ensure safe ship
and lines of
operation and protection
communication between
of the environment.
ship and shore.
Identify and manage Prepare for emergencies
potential risks and through drills and
establish safeguards. contingency planning.
Key Elements of an SMS
Safety and Instructions and Defined levels of
environmental procedures for safe authority and lines
protection policy. operation of ships. of communication.
Procedures for
Emergency Internal audits and
reporting
preparedness management
accidents and non-
plans. reviews.
conformities.
Continuous Improvement under
ISM & SMS
Regular audits and inspections to ensure compliance.
Review and update procedures based on lessons learned.
Encourage crew feedback to improve safety culture.
Training programs to enhance safety skills.
• QUESTIONS