The International Safety Management Code, adopted by the IMO, which establishes an international standard for the safe management and operation of ships and for pollution prevention. The ISM Code requires shipping companies to implement a Safety Management System (SMS) and undergo regular audits.
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ISM Code
The IMO safety-management standard requiring shipping companies to operate a documented Safety Management System.
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More in Maritime Law & Regulations
Classification SocietyAn organization that establishes and maintains technical standards for the construction and operation of ships and offshore structures.Flag StateThe country in which a vessel is registered and whose flag it flies.General AverageA principle of maritime law under which all parties to a sea venture proportionally share any losses resulting from a voluntary sacrifice of part of the ship or cargo to save the whole in an emergency.ISPS CodeThe International Ship and Port Facility Security Code, a comprehensive set of measures to enhance the security of ships and port facilities developed in response to the perceived threats to ships and port facilities after the September 2001 attacks.Limitation of LiabilityA legal principle in maritime law that allows a shipowner to limit the amount of their financial liability for claims arising from maritime incidents.Maritime LienA privileged claim against a vessel arising from maritime services rendered to the ship or damage caused by the ship.
Back to DictionaryEntry updated May 2026