ISM Audit

Internal and external audit of the Safety Management System under the ISM Code Sec. 12. Internal audits are conducted by the operator's own auditors at intervals not exceeding twelve months; external audits are conducted by the flag state or its Recognised Organisation as part of issuing and renewing the Document of Compliance (company) and Safety Management Certificate (vessel). IMO MSC-MEPC.7/Circ.8 sets out the audit guidelines. Major non-conformities suspend or withdraw the certificates and require corrective action plans before reinstatement.