ISM Code
The ISM Code (International Safety Management Code) is the mandatory IMO standard for the safe operation of ships and pollution prevention, codified in SOLAS Chapter IX. On commercially registered superyachts above 500 GT it requires a documented Safety Management System (SMS), a designated person ashore (DPA) and regular flag-state audits.
What is the ISM Code?
The ISM Code is the International Safety Management Code, a mandatory IMO standard codified in Chapter IX of the SOLAS Convention. It sets the framework for the safe management and operation of ships and for the prevention of pollution. On superyachts, the ISM Code applies to commercially registered yachts of 500 gross tonnes or more, and is the principal safety-management instrument under which such yachts operate.
The Code requires every applicable yacht and its operating company to implement a documented Safety Management System (SMS). The SMS sets out the company's safety and environmental policy, the responsibilities of shore-based and on-board personnel, procedures for routine operations and emergencies, reporting and analysis of non-conformities, and the requirement for continuous improvement. The yacht must carry a Safety Management Certificate (SMC) and the company a Document of Compliance (DoC), both issued by or on behalf of the flag state.
Each operator must appoint a Designated Person Ashore (DPA) with direct access to senior management, responsible for monitoring the safety and pollution-prevention aspects of each yacht's operation. The system is sustained by regular flag-state external audits, internal audits and the master's annual review of the SMS as it applies to the yacht.
Why it matters for yacht owners
For owners of commercially registered yachts, the ISM Code is not optional. A valid SMC is a prerequisite for operating the yacht commercially, for insurance cover at commercial rates and for entry into many ports. Non-compliance can result in detention by port state control and loss of charter income. Beyond regulation, a well-implemented SMS materially reduces operational risk: clearer procedures, better-trained crew, fewer incidents and stronger insurance positioning. Most professional management firms run ISM compliance as a core service for their managed fleet.
Key facts
- Mandatory IMO instrument codified in SOLAS Chapter IX
- Applies to commercially registered yachts of 500 gross tonnes or more
- Requires a documented Safety Management System covering operations and emergencies
- Each operator must appoint a Designated Person Ashore (DPA) with access to top management
- Yacht carries a Safety Management Certificate; operator carries a Document of Compliance
- Subject to regular flag-state external audits, internal audits and the master's annual review
- Non-conformities must be recorded, analysed and acted on under the SMS
- Closely linked to the MLC 2006 and STCW frameworks for crew welfare and training
Yacht management
View moreFAQ
What does the ISM Code apply to?
The ISM Code applies to all commercially registered yachts of 500 gross tonnes or more, alongside passenger ships and cargo vessels. Private yachts below that threshold are not required to comply, although some owners voluntarily adopt an ISM-style safety management system as best practice. Yachts operated commercially below 500 GT typically fall under flag-state codes such as the MCA Large Yacht Code or the Red Ensign Group Yacht Code, which incorporate similar safety-management principles.
What is a Designated Person Ashore?
The Designated Person Ashore (DPA) is a role mandated by the ISM Code. The DPA acts as the link between the yacht and the highest level of management ashore, with direct access to senior leadership. Their responsibility is to monitor the safety and pollution-prevention aspects of each yacht's operation and to ensure adequate shore-based resources and support. On managed yachts the DPA function is typically held by a senior officer within the management firm.
What is a Safety Management System?
A Safety Management System (SMS) is the documented framework required by the ISM Code. It sets out the operator's safety and environmental policy, the responsibilities and authority of shore-based and on-board personnel, procedures for routine and emergency operations, and processes for reporting, analysing and acting on non-conformities, accidents and hazardous situations. The SMS must be maintained, reviewed and improved continuously, with the master conducting an annual review.
How is ISM compliance audited?
ISM compliance is audited at three levels. The flag state, or a recognised organisation acting on its behalf, conducts external audits to issue and renew the Safety Management Certificate and the Document of Compliance, typically annually with full renewal at five-year intervals. The operator runs its own internal audits on each yacht and shore office. The master conducts an annual review of how the SMS is functioning aboard. Findings feed into corrective action under the SMS.
The Superyacht Partners
For any owner, the choice of who will be personally in charge of your relationship with Superyacht Partners, is just as important as the company and the team as a whole. With extensive experience in managing, operating, and building superyachts, our team excels in all aspects of yacht brokerage. We offer comprehensive legal, commercial, and operational expertise, ensuring every angle of the sale, purchase, and operation is meticulously evaluated.
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