3.1 The ISM Code requires that Companies establish
safety objectives as described in section 1.2 of the ISM Code, and
in addition that Companies develop, implement and maintain a safety
management system (SMS) which includes functional requirements as
listed in section 1.4 of the ISM Code.
3.2 Given the self-regulatory principles of the
ISM Code, the internal verification and review processes are key elements
in the implementation of each SMS. The Company should consider the
outcome of internal audits, internal SMS reviews and analysis of non-conformities,
accidents and hazardous occurrences to enhance the effectiveness of
operations and procedures within their SMS.
To comply with the Code, the Company should:
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.1 designate a person or persons with direct access
to the highest level of management who should monitor the safe operation
of each ship (section 4);
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.2 ensure that adequate resources and shore-based
support are provided to enable the designated person or persons to
carry out their functions (section 3.3);
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.3 define and document the master's responsibility
with regard to reviewing the safety management system and reporting
its deficiencies to the shore-based management (section 5.1);
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.4 establish procedures for reporting and analysis
of non-conformities, accidents and hazardous occurrences (section
9.1);
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.5 periodically evaluate the effectiveness of,
and when needed, review of the safety management system (section 12.2);
and
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.6 perform internal audits to verify whether safety
management activities comply with the requirements of the safety management
system (section 12.1).