THE ISM CODE

The "International Management Code for the Safe Operation of Ships and for Pollution Prevention" - known as the ISM Code, has become international law for certain categories of vessels:   Passenger ships, oil tankers, chemical tankers, gas carriers, bulk carriers and high speed cargo craft of 500 gross tonnage and over, effective July 1, 1998 and other cargo vessels and mobile offshore drilling units of 500 gross tonnage and over effective by July 1, 2002.   The ISM Code can take up to two years to implement; the above deadlines do not provide for any extension. The US Government has stated that it will rigorously enforce the ISM Code.

In maritime circles, Albion Quality Management Systems is frequently asked whether ISO 9000 embraces ISM Code Certification and removes the need for it. The answer is NO but the ISM Code and ISO 9000 are complementary and, despite differences (which are easily reconciled), there are undoubtedly advantages in dual certification and it is possible to establish a program that would enable a company to obtain both forms of Certification simultaneously.

The principals of Albion Quality Management Systems, Inc. have a wealth of industry knowledge combined with ISO 9000 and ISM Code experience and are in a position to assist with ISO 9000, ISM code or dual Certification.

Guidelines on the Implementation of the International Safety Management Code (ISM Code) pursuant to IMO Assembly Resolution A.788(19) - 1995 as set forth by the US Coast Guard can be found on their website or by clicking here.

For a detailed discussion on how Albion can assist you, we invite you to complete the Guest Book for an early response.