Auditing of safety & quality management systems (ship & shore)

The safety management system (SMS) is an organized system planned and implemented by the shipping companies to ensure the safety of the ship and marine environment.

SMS is an important aspect of the International safety management (ISM) code and it details all the important policies, practices, and procedures that are to be followed in order to ensure the safe functioning of ships at the sea. All commercial vessels are required to establish safe ship management procedures. SMS forms one of the important parts of the ISM code.

The safety management system (SMS) therefore ensures that each and every ship comply with the mandatory safety rules and regulations, and follow the codes, guidelines, and standards recommended by the IMO, classification societies, and concerned maritime organizations.

What is included in the safety management system (SMS)?

• Safety and environmental protection policy
• Procedure and guidelines for reporting accidents or any other form of non-conformities
• Clear information on the level of authority and lines of communication among ship crew members, and between shore and shipboard personnel
• Procedures and guidelines to ensure safe operations of ships and protection of the marine environment in compliance with relevant international and flag state legislations
• Procedures for internal audits and management reviews
• Vessel details