DNVs ISM Roles and Capabilities

DNV offers extensive world-wide statutory ISM auditing, certification, and advisory services through our ten regional Maritime Service Centres and a network of over 220 auditors working from 46 countries. Whether assisting a shipping company to develop a comprehensive Safety Management System for the first time or auditing and helping improve an already experienced and certified shore office and its fleet, DNV provides the full spectrum of ISM-related support. ISM fleet size and organisational complexity range from Master-owned/single ship operations to 400-ship conglomerates. DNV is formally delegated to deliver ISM services on-behalf-of 68 Flag State Administrations in addition to several special case national appointments. DNV works closely with national and international ISM authorities and is a full and interactive member of International Association of Classification Societies (IACS).

The ISM Certification Record

In historical terms, DNV has issued over 1500 Company ISM Documents of Compliance and 10,000 shipboard Safety Management Certificates since 1994.

ISM Code Challenges and the DNV Response

The 1998 and 2002 mandatory implementation milestones of the ISM Code marked a major breakthrough for the maritime shipping industry. For the first time ever, companies and their management ashore were brought into the statutory compliance equation involving safety and environmental management systems. The focus on the vital ship-shore link had been established under the objectives and terms of the ISM Code. Recognising that no two shipping companies are exactly the same, the ISM Codes very intentions and content offer wide latitudes to operators toward meeting the requirements of maritime rules and regulations. One of the primary objectives of the ISM Code emphasises the concept of continuous improvement, thereby integrating a dynamism leading to safer and cleaner seas in the future. DNV acknowledges and actively supports the Codes objectives through our own work with shipping companies.

The Ever-Changing World of Safe, Clean Shipping

Safety and environmental issues are integral concerns to the entire merchant shipping community today. Whether complying with statutory requirements or cutting new pathways within the industry, shipping companies encounter emerging tasks and forces of change daily. Businesses must be efficiently and profitably managed, all within the bounds of policies and procedures that characterise todays shipping markets and those of the future. In the process, questions are raised. Problems require solutions. DNV ISM-related services are there to deliver, in a clear and effective way.