Rationale
The ISM code is now considered one of the pillars of maritime safety but at the moment it does not require any special knowledge for seafarers such as the ISPS code, on ship security, added to the convention program and the STCW code.
Among the industry, it now appears necessary to rectify that with regard to regulations relating to familiarization and training related to the ISM code and its application.
Despite this lack of obligation under the convention, teaching comparable to ISPS training could be required as well as a corresponding certification where training programs are not specifically provided for it.
Indeed, although efforts have been made here and there on the integration of ISM knowledge into the officers' curriculum in some countries that are signatory countries to the Convention, knowledge of the code and its application remains insufficient and therefore it appears necessary today to proceed in the STCW convention & code in the same way as for the ISPS code.
In this regard, we propose here an amendment to the Convention and the associated code in the same style as the SECURITY amendments proposed and accepted in its time.
Responsibility for appropriate ISM training is integrated into the curriculum of deck or engine ratings (deck, engine, electrotechnical), operational level officers (deck & engine-electrotechnical), and management level officers (Masters & Chief mates- Chief and second engineers and Purser/cruise manager on passenger ships).
Given this late introduction into the convention and code, a new regulation VI/7 is inserted into Chapter VI.
In our view, by rectifying a need, the benefits for the industry will be improving ship safety management and maritime environmental protection.
So, please send your opinion and your proposals to
bertrand.apperry@orange.fr
