Designated Person Ashore (DPA)

The Designated Person Ashore (DPA) is the shore-based individual who provides the direct link between a ship and the company’s highest management on safety and pollution-prevention matters under the ISM Code. ISM Code section 4 requires every company to designate a DPA with direct access to the highest level of management, responsible for monitoring safety and environmental aspects of each ship’s operation and ensuring adequate resources and shore support. The ISM Code is made mandatory by SOLAS Chapter IX (in force 1 July 1998). The DPA’s authority and independence are verified at the company audit underpinning the Document of Compliance.