Introduction

The ISM Lead Auditor training program is designed by Global Horizon Training Center to equip maritime professionals with the comprehensive knowledge and auditing skills necessary to evaluate and ensure compliance with the International Safety Management (ISM) Code. The program provides participants with an in-depth understanding of the ISM Code’s purpose, structure, and implementation requirements, as well as the essential competencies to plan, conduct, report, and follow up on audits effectively.
Through case studies, interactive discussions, and practical exercises, participants will gain the confidence and expertise needed to perform internal and external audits within shipping companies and maritime organizations, ensuring that safety management systems are effectively implemented and maintained in accordance with international standards.

Objectives

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

• Understand the structure, principles, and intent of the ISM Code and its relationship with the SOLAS Convention.

• Identify the roles and responsibilities of the Company, Designated Person Ashore (DPA), and Shipboard Personnel under the ISM Code.

• Plan, conduct, and report internal and external ISM audits in accordance with ISO 19011 auditing guidelines.

• Evaluate the effectiveness of Safety Management Systems (SMS) and identify areas for continual improvement.

• Apply risk-based auditing techniques to assess compliance and performance.

• Develop corrective and preventive action strategies for audit findings.

• Enhance communication and leadership skills during the audit process.

Organizational Impact

Upon completion of this program, organizations will:

• Strengthen compliance with international maritime safety and environmental regulations.

• Improve the efficiency and effectiveness of internal audit systems.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and safety awareness across all operational levels.

• Reduce risks associated with non-compliance and operational failures.

• Enhance the organization’s reputation and credibility with maritime authorities and stakeholders.

• Ensure readiness for external and flag state audits through competent and certified auditors.

Target Audience

This program is designed for:

• Marine auditors and inspectors

• Designated Persons Ashore (DPAs)

• Safety and Quality Managers

• Masters, Chief Engineers, and senior ship officers

• Compliance officers in shipping companies

• Individuals seeking to become certified ISM Lead Auditors

Outlines

Day 1: Introduction to ISM Code and Safety Management Principles

• Overview of the ISM Code: purpose, objectives, and background

• Relationship between ISM Code, SOLAS, and IMO requirements

• Key definitions and terminology under the ISM Code

• Structure and functional requirements of the Safety Management System (SMS)

• Roles and responsibilities of the Company, DPA, and shipboard personnel

• Documentation, records, and certification under the ISM framework

Day 2: Safety Management System Implementation and Maintenance

• Elements of an effective Safety Management System

• Developing safety and environmental protection policies

• Risk assessment and hazard identification

• Emergency preparedness and response procedures

• Continuous improvement and corrective action mechanisms

• Common ISM non-conformities and best practices for compliance

Day 3: Audit Principles, Process, and Techniques

• Fundamentals of auditing: types and objectives

• ISO 19011: Guidelines for auditing management systems

• Roles and responsibilities of auditors and lead auditors

• Planning and preparing for an ISM audit

• Audit checklists and evidence-gathering methods

• Interviewing techniques and communication during audits

Day 4: Conducting and Reporting ISM Audits

• Conducting on-site audits (shipboard and shore-based)

• Identifying non-conformities, observations, and opportunities for improvement

• Recording and classifying audit findings

• Writing clear, concise, and objective audit reports

• Follow-up, verification, and closure of audit findings

• Case studies and group exercises on real audit scenarios

Day 5: Lead Auditor Skills and Certification Requirements

• Managing an audit team: leadership, delegation, and coordination

• Conflict resolution and communication skills for lead auditors

• Ethical considerations and auditor behavior

• Review of ISM Code key elements and compliance checklists

• Final group exercise: simulated ISM audit and presentation of findings