MINI ISM
In accordance with the MCA Large Yacht Code (LY2) all commercially registered red ensign vessels over 24m loadline length and under 500 grt are required to maintain and use a safety management system. This system is commonly referred to as Mini ISM.
The requirement for commercial vessels to comply came into effect from 1 January 2007. It is expected that the requirement to maintain a Mini ISM system will eventually apply to both private and commercial vessels over 24m loadline and under 500 grt.
Mini ISM is a shortened version of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, which applies to all vessels over 500 grt.
A Mini ISM system must cover all on board policies and procedures in relation to the management and safe operation of the vessel.
There are no requirements for an external annual audit or shore based inspection of the system. The approval of the Mini ISM will be undertaken by the MCA or the relevant flag state authority as part of the annual MCA coding survey.
An important part to remember is that having a Mini ISM system in place is not compliance in itself. Evidence and recording of adherence to the system will also be expected.
For further information and guidance on how to produce and operate a Mini–ISM system, and to download a Word version of the skeleton document approved by and recommend by the MCA, which should be tailored accordingly to meet the specific requirements of your vessel, please click here.
For any further assistance please contact us.