Safety at Sea: All About the International Safety Management Code

Imagine a world where every ship on the ocean not only meets but exceeds safety standards—a world where the risk of accidents is minimized through a disciplined, systematic approach to vessel operations. This is the vision behind the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, which was created to “provide an international standard for the safe management and operation of ships and for pollution prevention.”

What Is the ISM Code?

Adopted in 1993 and enforced since 1998, the ISM Code is an internationally recognized set of rules designed to ensure the safe operation of ships and protect the marine environment. As an integral part of the SOLAS Convention (Safety of Life at Sea), the ISM Code requires shipowners and operators to develop and implement a comprehensive Safety Management System (SMS). This system lays out clear procedures for everyday operations and emergency response, ensuring that every vessel adheres to a uniform set of safety standards—regardless of its nationality or the waters it sails.

The Structure of a Safety Management System

At the heart of the ISM Code is the Safety Management System, a detailed blueprint that guides a ship’s operations.

This system requires companies to:

• Establish Clear Safety Protocols: Companies must outline every step needed to maintain safe operations, from routine maintenance to emergency drills.
• Conduct Regular Audits and Inspections: Both internal audits and external inspections—often carried out by state administrations or classification societies—ensure that safety measures are consistently applied. These inspections help identify potential hazards before they escalate.
• Provide Ongoing Training: Every crew member must be thoroughly trained on the SMS and fully aware of their responsibilities. This ensures that everyone on board, from the captain to the engine room staff, is equipped to handle both everyday tasks and unexpected emergencies.
• Maintain Communication: A comprehensive SMS includes constant lines of communication between onshore management and shipboard personnel. This transparency is key to quickly addressing any issues that arise.

By establishing these protocols, the ISM Code creates a safety net that spans the entire crew and every aspect of ship operations.

The ISM Code isn’t static—it evolves alongside technological advancements and changing operational demands. Regular amendments, such as those adopted in 2000, 2004, and most recently in the 2018 edition, ensure that the code remains relevant and effective. These updates address emerging risks, incorporate new safety technologies, and refine procedures based on real-world experiences. As the industry continues to advance, the ISM Code is set to remain a cornerstone of maritime safety.

The Risks of Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with the ISM Code is more than just a breach of regulations—it creates a hazardous environment that can have devastating consequences for maritime workers. Crew members may be exposed to risks such as:

Fires
Inadequate maintenance of electrical systems and poor management of flammable materials can ignite fires onboard. On large cargo vessels, improper labeling or storage of hazardous cargo further increases this risk. Such incidents violate ISM guidelines on equipment upkeep, proper cargo handling, and emergency preparedness, exposing crews to life-threatening burns and toxic smoke inhalation.

Explosions
Explosions may occur when volatile chemicals are mishandled or when safety protocols for high-pressure systems are ignored. For instance, a failure to monitor and control the buildup of flammable vapors or a lack of proper risk assessments can lead to catastrophic blowouts. These scenarios breach the ISM Code’s stringent requirements for safe operational procedures and risk management, putting workers at severe risk of shrapnel injuries and fatal trauma.

Collisions
A collision at sea can result from inadequate navigational protocols or insufficient training of the crew. When ship operators neglect to adhere to established safety practices—such as proper watchkeeping, communication, and adherence to traffic separation schemes—the vessel is more likely to be involved in accidents. This non-compliance not only endangers the crew but also violates the ISM Code’s mandate for maintaining a high standard of operational vigilance.

Falls Overboard
Falls overboard are a constant danger on any vessel, particularly when lifesaving equipment and safety harnesses are neglected. Failure to enforce regular safety drills, maintain secure working areas, and properly train crew members in emergency procedures increases the likelihood of such incidents. This oversight directly contradicts the ISM Code’s focus on personnel protection and emergency preparedness, potentially leading to drownings or severe injuries if rescue efforts are delayed.

Equipment Failures
Routine inspections and preventive maintenance are the critical for safe maritime operations. When these practices are ignored, heavy machinery and critical components—like cranes, winches, or hydraulic systems—can malfunction. Equipment failures often result in crush injuries, lacerations, or amputations. These incidents typically stem from non-compliance with the ISM Code’s requirements for vessel maintenance and operational integrity, posing significant risks to everyone onboard.

Seeking Answers & Accountability

Every lapse in safety amplifies the risk on board, turning what should be a secure working environment into a potential death trap. While regulatory fines and penalties may follow, the most severe fallout is measured in the human cost—lives lost, careers ended, and families forever altered by preventable tragedies at sea.

At Arnold & Itkin, we stand with those who deserve nothing less than the highest standards of safety. Maritime companies must uphold their legal—and moral—obligation to keep their vessels safe and their crews secure. When they cut corners, our maritime attorneys fight to ensure they are held accountable—because every life at sea matters.

To discuss your case and the ways our firm can help, call (888) 346-5024 for a free consultation.