In the maritime industry, ISM, PSC, and MLC audits serve different purposes and are conducted by different entities, though they often overlap in practice. Here's a breakdown of the differences:
ISM Audit (International Safety Management Code)
Purpose:
To ensure that ships are operated safely and that pollution prevention measures are in place. Inspections can be random or targeted and can result in detentions if serious deficiencies are found.
Conducted by: Flag State or Recognized Organizations (ROs) on behalf of the Flag State.
Applies to: Ships over 500 GT engaged in international voyages.
Key Areas Covered:
- Safety management system (SMS)
- Emergency preparedness
- Reporting of accidents and non-conformities
- Maintenance of ship and equipment
- Documentation and record-keeping
Types of ISM Audits:
- Interim (for new ships or company)
- Initial (before issuing Document of Compliance and Safety Management Certificate)
- Annual/intermediate (surveillance)
- Renewal (every 5 years)
PSC Inspection (Port State Control)
Purpose:
To verify foreign ships' compliance with international conventions for safety, security, and environmental protection.
Conducted by: Port State Control Officers (PSCOs) from the country the ship is visiting.
Applies to: All foreign ships in national ports.
Key Areas Covered:
- SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea)
- MARPOL (Pollution prevention)
- STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping)
- ISM, ISPS, and MLC compliance'
- Ship's certificates, crew qualifications, condition of equipment
MLC Audit (Maritime Labour Convention)
Purpose:
To ensure decent working and living conditions for seafarers.
Conducted by: Flag State or Recognized Organizations (ROs) on behalf of the Flag State. PSC can also check MLC compliance during inspections.
Applies to: Ships of 500 GT or more engaged in international voyages or operating between ports of different countries.
Key Areas Covered:
- Seafarer contracts
- Wages and hours of rest
- Accommodation and food
- Medical care
- Health and safety protection
- Complaint procedures
Certifications: Maritime Labour Certificate, Declaration of Maritime Labour Compliance (DMLC)