Chapter 15: Implementing the ISM Code Effectively on Bulk Carriers

The International Safety Management (ISM) Code is a cornerstone of modern maritime safety. Adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and made mandatory under SOLAS Chapter IX (Management for the Safe Operation of Ships), the ISM Code establishes an international standard for the safe management and operation of ships and for pollution prevention. Its primary aim is to ensure safety at sea, prevent human injury or loss of life, and avoid damage to the environment, in particular to the marine environment, and to property. The Code achieves this by requiring shipping companies to establish and maintain a Safety Management System (SMS) that governs all aspects of their operations, both ashore and onboard their vessels. For the Master of a bulk carrier, the ISM Code is not just another set of regulations; it is the framework that defines their responsibilities, empowers their authority for safety, and provides the tools for managing risks effectively. This chapter will explore the structure of an SMS, the key elements of the ISM Code, and practical strategies for its effective implementation onboard, ensuring that safety becomes an integral part of the vessel’s operational culture.