・To act as a spokesman for the ship management industry, so that its voice is heard on important issues facing shipping;
・To share professional experiences and circulate information of common interest to members. This role is expected to become more significant as a way to resolve industry wide issues.
The Audit Body
Before an ISMA member company can be audited, it applies officially to the Secretariat, which informs the Audit Body accordingly. The Audit Body decides which Classification Society will lead and which will appoint the assisting auditors and, by mutual agreement, the dates on which the audit will be performed.
The three auditors will then conduct the audit over a number of days, depending upon the size of the company and the number of ships under management. The audit is performed for the following classes of ship types, as appropriate:
・Container vessels
・Bulk dry cargo vessels
・Tankers
・Gas carriers
・Chemical carriers
・Reefers
・Passenger ships
・Special types
Shipboard audits are performed on at least one of each ship type managed. The Audit Body comprises representatives from four Classification Societies: American Bureau of Shipping, Det Norske Veritas, Germanischer Lloyd and Lloyd's Register of Shipping. These Classification Societies are constantly monitoring the changing requirements of other quality codes. They also provide information regarding any common non-conformities that are encountered.
Benefits of membership
Membership of ISMA and certification to the Code of Shipmanagement Standards results from a logical approach and a determination to be seen to meet the highest operational standard in the shipping industry.
ISMA accreditation is a route to achieve both ISO9002 and ISM Code with no extra effort. Certificate members benefit from being at the forefront of developments and have a voice in IMO. Consultative Status in IMO gives members the opportunity to influence developments that affect ship managers and crew managers.
ISMA membership provides a forum for technical advice. A help line is available for members encountering difficulties with ISM Code, ISO 9002 and ISMA Code matters.
