International Safety Management Code: Development, Implementation and Maintenance of Safety Management System (SMS) for Shipping Companies and Vessels

Assisting shipowners and operators in preparing their Company and vessel(s) to meet the requirements of the International Safety Management Code (ISM Code) and obtain Document of Compliance (DOC) for the Company and Safety Management Certificate (SMS) for the vessel. Operating since 2005.

ISM & ISPS Code Services

Development, Implementation, Support

1

Development of SMS documentation

For Company and vessel(s). Complete documentation package meeting ISM Code requirements.

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2

Implementation of procedures and preparation for ISM Code certification

Practical implementation of Safety Management System. Preparation for ISM Code certification.

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3

Maintaining and improving existing SMS

Documentation updates, procedure revisions, enhancement of current system.

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4

Internal Audits and preparation for External Audits

Conducting internal audits and preparation for external audits (Class, Flag, RMRS).

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5

Expert/auditor on-site visits possible with training

Expert/auditor on-site visits possible with training for shore-based personnel and vessel's officers.

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When are ISM Code requirements applicable and what documents are needed?

In accordance with the requirements of the ISM Code, a seagoing vessel (with gross tonnage of 500 GT and more or any passenger vessel regardless of size) engaged in international voyages must have a Safety Management Certificate, confirming that a Safety Management System (SMS) has been implemented on the vessel. The shipowner or company responsible for safe operation of the vessel must hold a Company Compliance Document, which confirms both the existence of the SMS and its compliance with the ISM Code requirements, as well as authorization to manage vessels of a specified type.

Why it's wise to start preparation early?

SMS is not just paperwork

Preparing a vessel and her crew for ISM Code certification is serious business requiring advance planning. Manuals and procedures need to be effectively integrated into daily operations of the company and ships.

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External audit will identify non-conformities

During external audit conducted by classification societies acting on behalf of Flag Administration, non-conformities shall be identified, which should ideally be resolved before the audit takes place.

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Reduced risks and costs

A conscientious and thorough approach reduces risks of delays, repeated inspections, and additional expenses.

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Identification of Non-conformities

Existing non-conformities can impact safety of the vessel, people, environment, and cargo. These issues should be identified early so corrective and preventive actions can be developed and executed to eliminate them and prevent recurrence.

When are we especially helpful?

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Your company is launching vessel operations from scratch or forming a new fleet.

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Initial certification for Document of Compliance (DOC)/ Safety Management Certificate (SMC) needs to be prepared.

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There's already an established Safety Management System (SMS), but it requires updating or reworking due to changes in operations or fleet composition, especially when introducing new types of vessels.

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Non-conformities were found during an audit, requiring assistance in developing and implementing corrective/preventive actions.

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An internal audit prior to an external audit is required.

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An experienced specialist is required to analyze the status of the SMS implementation on site - directly at the Company's office and/or on board the ship.

SMS development and implementation services for shipowners and operators

01

Development of SMS Documentation

  • Development/updating of documents for the company's Safety Management System (SMS).
  • Development/updating of the ship-specific parts of the SMS.
  • Adaptation of documentation according to vessel type, navigation area, operational profile, and management structure.
02

Implementation of SMS in Company and Ships

  • Development of an SMS implementation plan for the company and specific vessels.
  • Consulting services for procedure implementation ashore and aboard vessels.
  • Optional workshops/trainings for staff, including site visits if necessary.
03

Internal Audits & Preparation for External Audit

  • Assistance to shipowners in conducting internal audits for vessels and shore-based departments.
  • Preparation of the company for external auditing under the ISM Code, ensuring all necessary documentation and materials are ready and providing recommendations to crews and management before the external audit.
  • Preparation for verification of compliance with the requirements of the SMS in real work.
04

Support for ISM Certification

  • Submission of applications for external audits (optionally, support for communication process).
  • Accompanying external audits of companies and vessels.
  • Analysis of audit results and development of recommendations for addressing non-conformities.
  • Assist in planning corrective/preventive actions and further upgrading/refinement of the SMS.

How we work

Workflow Order
01

Short Brief

Fleet details, tonnage, areas/voyages, operations, flag/classification society, current SMS status.
02

Diagnostics

Current state analysis and identification what is available now and what is required to comply with the ISM Code.
03

Work Plan

Timeframes, stages, document list, interaction format.
04

Development / Update

of SMS documentation
05

Implementation

Procedure alignment, consultations, breakdown per departments/vessels.
06

Pre‑Audit

Internal audit (if required)
07

External Audit Support

Handling observations and non‑conformities until they are closed out.
  • External audit
  • Adjustments
  • Finalization

Why trust us with ISM Code Implementation

Internationally recognised experts with decades of experience

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Practical experience in developing, implementing and maintaining Safety Management Systems since 2005

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Experience working with seagoing and river‑sea vessels of different types

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Conducting internal audits on behalf of shipowners and external audits on behalf of Flag States / Classification Societies

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Our specialists are international ISM experts authorized by Maritime Administrations of Foreign Flags and international Classification Societies

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Geographical coverage: Our auditors and representatives are located in various cities across Eastern Europe, the Balkans, Mediterranean region, Far East, China, Singapore. We can travel to different regions upon request

Information Required for estimating timeline and costs

What do we need from you for our quote?

  • Type of vessel(s), Gross Tonnage (GT), number of vessels.
  • Trading areas / voyage characteristics (international/domestic voyages etc.).
  • Types of operations (cargo transportation, towing etc.).
  • Flag/planned flag, class (if applicable).
  • Current status: whether there is an existing SMS, previous audits, presence of observations/ non-conformities.
  • Desired timeframe for certification.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about ISM Code

It depends on the initial condition (whether an SMS exists and how fully implemented it is), the number of vessels, and the level of personnel readiness to work according to set procedures. After receiving basic input data, we will develop a realistic schedule and deadlines for each phase.

We develop and/ or update documentation tailored specifically to your company, fleet, and operations while supporting its implementation. Our goal isn’t merely a package of documents, but rather a functional SMS capable of passing audits and assisting shipowners and vessel officers in fulfilling their responsibilities.

Yes. We analyze the audit outcomes, prepare recommendations and plan for corrective/ preventive actions, help to close the non-conformities, and bring the SMS into full compliance with the code’s requirements.

Yes, we assist shipowners in carrying out internal audits of vessels and shore to verify compliance with the requirements of the ISM Code.

Yes, upon request, our experts/auditors can travel to your location to provide advice and conduct seminars concerning SMS implementation among shore-based staff and vessel officers.

Do you need a SMS and preparation for audits of the company and the vessel?

Send us brief information on the fleet and current status. We will suggest the best work plan, terms and cost.
📞 +382 69 549291 📧 business@marine-centre.org

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