ISM Code
The IMO safety-management standard requiring shipping companies to operate a documented Safety Management System.
- Category
- Regulation and Compliance
- Dictionary entry
- ISM Code
- Last reviewed
How it works
The International Safety Management (ISM) Code requires every ship operator to establish and maintain a Safety Management System (SMS): documented procedures for safe operation, pollution prevention, maintenance, emergency response and continuous improvement, with a designated person ashore linking ship and company.
Compliance is verified by a Document of Compliance for the company and a Safety Management Certificate for each ship. ISM made safety culture an auditable, certified requirement rather than a matter of goodwill.
Where it shows up on The Maritime
Also known as: ISM code, safety management system, SMS.
The short dictionary definition is at Dictionary entry: ISM Code. This page is the explainer.
Related terms
International Maritime Organization (IMO)
The United Nations agency that sets global rules for ship safety, security and pollution prevention.
Port State Control (PSC)
The inspection of foreign ships in national ports to verify they meet international safety and environmental standards.
Classification Society
An organisation that sets technical standards for ship construction and surveys vessels against them throughout their life.
More regulation and compliance terms
A plain-English reference definition: our own explanation of a standard shipping concept, not a licensed source or legal advice. See the full glossary or the broader maritime dictionary.
Last reviewed: .