Understanding the ISM-Code: Safety onboard a fishing vessel

The International Safety Management (ISM) Code is part of the international framework for safety management and pollution prevention in shipping. It establishes standards for effective management within shipping companies and operational organizations, applicable to both vessels and their shore-based support.

The core objectives of the ISM Code include

• Ensuring a safe workplace through effective procedures, regular drills, proper maintenance, and continuous competence development.
• Compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and standards to uphold safety and environmental protection.
• Promoting a culture of continuous improvement by tailoring the safety management system to the company’s specific needs.
• Establishing clear guidelines for risk assessment, incident reporting, and corrective actions.

In Norway, fishing vessels have specific safety management requirements. Many already align with the ISM Code’s principles through existing systems. The Norwegian Maritime Authority encourages companies to build upon their current practices to fully meet ISM standards, thereby enhancing safety for both crew and vessels.

Adapting the ISM Code for Fishing Vessels

• Documentation: Fishing vessels must document risk assessments and deviations, with requirements scaled appropriately for smaller companies.
• Shore-based functions: Companies with limited administrative resources can assign multiple roles to a single individual or outsource expertise to fulfill responsibilities such as designated person and emergency preparedness.
• Reporting: Incidents, deviations, and improvement suggestions should be reported and analyzed to enhance safety. For fishing vessels, this can involve straightforward procedures without complex reporting systems.
• Work permits and risk assessments: While extensive use of work permits isn’t mandatory, tasks involving risk must be documented and assessed in accordance with ISM section 7.

Benefits of the ISM Code for Fishing Vessels

• Enhanced safety: A safety management system helps prevent accidents and improves the working environment for the crew.
• Improved regulatory compliance: The ISM Code assists companies in tracking and adhering to applicable regulations.
• Continuous improvement: Systematic reviews and audits enable fishing vessels to adapt to evolving requirements and standards.
• Effective emergency response: A well-functioning preparedness system reduces response time during accidents and other critical situations.

Certification and Supervision

To achieve ISM Code certification, a company must:

• Document its safety management system in line with the code’s requirements.
• Undergo an audit with the Norwegian Maritime Authority to ensure the system is implemented and operational.

The authority recommends that companies use the ISM Code as a framework, even for fishing vessels not mandated to have full certification. This approach allows for standardized safety practices and leverages a system of continuous improvement.

Conclusion

The ISM Code serves as a tool to cultivate a safety culture tailored to each company and vessel. By implementing ISM principles, fishing vessels can achieve improved safety, better regulatory compliance, and reduced risks to both crew and the environment. The Norwegian Maritime Authority encourages fishing vessel owners to utilize the ISM Code as a guide to enhance operational safety and efficiency.