SMS

The Safety Management System required by the ISM Code: the structured set of procedures, instructions, and records through which a company controls the safety and pollution-prevention aspects of ship operation. A compliant SMS documents the safety policy, lines of responsibility ashore and aboard, the master’s overriding authority, shipboard operations, emergency response, and the reporting and analysis of accidents and near misses. It is audited for the Document of Compliance and the Safety Management Certificate.