Introduction

Maritime organizations operate under multiple international regulatory frameworks that require strict compliance, continuous monitoring, and effective auditing systems. The International Safety Management (ISM) Code, the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, and the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) collectively form the foundation for safety, security, and seafarer welfare in the maritime industry.

This program, developed by Global Horizon Training Center, is designed to equip participants with the competencies required to perform internal audits across these three critical frameworks. It focuses on audit principles, compliance verification, risk-based auditing, and continuous improvement practices.

Participants will gain practical skills to plan, conduct, and report internal audits, identify non-conformities, and support organizations in achieving compliance and operational excellence.

Course Objectives

By the end of this program, participants will be able to:

• Understand the requirements of ISM, ISPS, and MLC frameworks
• Apply internal auditing principles and methodologies
• Plan and conduct integrated audits across multiple standards
• Identify non-conformities and areas for improvement
• Develop corrective and preventive action plans
• Prepare audit reports and communicate findings effectively
• Support compliance and certification processes
• Promote continuous improvement within maritime organizations

Target Audience

This program is designed for:

• Internal Auditors in maritime organizations
• Safety, Security, and Compliance Managers
• Ship Management and Fleet Personnel
• Marine HR and Crewing Managers
• Port and Terminal Managers
• Maritime Authority and Regulatory Staff

Outline

Day 1: Introduction to Maritime Regulatory Frameworks and Auditing

• Overview of ISM, ISPS, and MLC requirements
• Role of the International Maritime Organization and International Labour Organization
• Principles of internal auditing
• Types of audits (internal, external, compliance)
• Auditor roles, responsibilities, and ethics

Day 2: Audit Planning and Preparation

• Developing audit plans and checklists
• Risk-based auditing approach
• Understanding documentation (SMS, SSP, MLC records)
• Preparing audit schedules and scope
• Communication with auditees

Day 3: Conducting Internal Audits (ISM, ISPS, MLC)

• Audit techniques (interviews, observations, document review)
• Auditing safety management systems (ISM)
• Auditing security systems (ISPS)
• Auditing labor and welfare conditions (MLC)
• Collecting and verifying audit evidence

Day 4: Non-Conformities, Reporting, and Corrective Actions

• Identifying non-conformities and root causes
• Classification of findings (major/minor observations)
• Writing effective audit reports
• Developing corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)
• Follow-up and verification

Day 5: Integrated Auditing and Continuous Improvement

• Integrating ISM, ISPS, and MLC audits
• Preparing for external audits and inspections
• Continuous improvement and compliance monitoring
• Building a culture of audit readiness
• Final workshop: Conducting a full integrated audit