Emergency Contact Benefits of adopting ship-specific procedural systems on vessels where ISM does not apply Home Latest updates Publications Benefits of adopting ship-specific procedural systems on vessels where ISM does not apply 12 Jun 2015 Download page as PDF Sign up for alerts We understand that many of our Members' vessels, due to various reasons such as being less that 500GT or trading domestically, are not required to conform to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and therefore, the International Safety Management (ISM) Code. Even if it is not a regulatory requirement for Members to adopt these systems on their vessels, it is advisable to adopt, as a measure of good practice, a specific procedural system to ensure an adequate level of on board safety and quality. Practically this may not be to the extent required by the ISM Code, which may be disproportional to the vessel size, but one which places procedures and record systems on board that concentrate on identifying any significant risks that may possibly arise. To ensure Members have in place systems to manage risks, periodical assessments should be made and any procedures expanded/amended as appropriate. Adopting a practical procedural system on board may assist with: improving safety culture, safety performance, operational reliability and the safe operation of the ship: it is understood that many of our smaller vessels operate within the local harbour limits and/or coastal areas but basic procedures on applicable areas such as navigation, maintenance checks, cargo operations, bunkering and towing should be made available on board. Basic safety procedures concerning daily duties such as company/Master’s standing orders must be also produced as well as a simple familiarisation procedures for new joining crew. Members should bear in mind that by operating their vessels in a safe and efficient manner, the reputation of the Members may positively grow which is import