ISM Audit
Internal and external audit of the Safety Management System under the ISM Code; underpins the DOC and SMC.
In practice
Internal audits done by company auditor every 12 months; external audits by flag/RSO at intermediate and renewal. SMS findings translate into corrective action plans tracked by DPA.
Regulatory detail & full definition
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.
Authoritative source: ISM Code ↗
Related
Source: ISM Code Sec. 12; IMO MSC-MEPC.7/Circ.8
High confidence
Editorial confidence: how we grade.