ISM Code
The IMO safety-management standard requiring shipping companies to operate a documented Safety Management System.
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.
Also known as: ISM code, safety management system, SMS.
Related terms
International Maritime OrganizationIMO
The United Nations agency that sets global rules for ship safety, security and pollution prevention.
Port State ControlPSC
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.
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: June 2026.