Managing risk in an ever changing environment of a merchant vessel requires effective system of policies and procedures both onboard and ashore. Safety Management System provides a structured management approach towards controling the risks by

1. Ensuring safe practice in ship operations and a safe working environment
2. Assessing all the identified risks to ship’ its personnel and the environment, and establish safeguards
3. Ensuring continuous improvement of safety management skills of staff onboard and in the office, as well as preparation for emergencies

Internal and external audits ensure that ships and shore organizations are committed to the obligations and objectives outlined in the Safety Management System. It also enables shipping organizations to discover areas for improvement, measure performance, and establish ISM-compliant practices.