● Strengthen Documentation: Ensure permit-to-work systems, rest hour records, and maintenance logs are audit-ready.
● Enhance Crew Awareness: We don't just check books; we talk to the crew to ensure they actually understand the procedures.
● Minimize Detention Risk: Our proactive approach reduces the likelihood of 17-code or 30-code deficiencies.
ISM Code – Safety Management System (SMS) Compliance Audit
We perform ISM Code compliance audits and Safety Management System (SMS) verification, focusing on operational risk control, permit-to-work systems, emergency preparedness, and onboard safety culture implementation.
- Regulatory Framework: International Maritime Organization (IMO) – ISM Code
- Verification Focus: Risk assessment processes, compliance monitoring, and SMS effectiveness.
ISPS Code – Ship Security Compliance Audit
We conduct ISPS Code verification audits to assess Ship Security Plan (SSP) implementation, access control measures, restricted area management, and crew security awareness procedures.
- Regulatory Framework: International Maritime Organization (IMO) – Maritime Security / ISPS Code
- Verification Focus: SSP compliance, threat response readiness, and security drill effectiveness.
MLC 2006 – Maritime Labour Compliance Inspection
We carry out MLC 2006 compliance inspections to verify seafarer welfare conditions, onboard accommodation standards, working hours, and certification readiness under international labour requirements.
- Regulatory Framework: International Labour Organization (ILO) – MLC 2006
- Verification Focus: Accommodation conditions, rest hour compliance, and DMLC readiness (Part I & II).
Onboard Audit Methodology (Integrated ISM / ISPS / MLC Review)
- Unified document review across Safety Management System (SMS), Ship Security Plan (SSP), and Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) documentation systems.
- Crew interviews conducted across all operational departments, including deck, engine, galley, and security personnel.
- Operational observation during normal vessel routines to assess real-time compliance implementation.
- Cross-verification between documented procedures and actual onboard operational practices.
- Logbook and record consistency checks covering safety, security, and labour compliance entries.
- Physical verification of onboard conditions, critical equipment readiness, and safety/security arrangements.
Crew Awareness & Operational Understanding
- Direct interviews with crew members to verify understanding of Safety Management System (SMS), Ship Security Plan (SSP), and MLC procedures.
- Assessment of crew response to emergency procedures and onboard drills.
- Verification of familiarity with permit-to-work systems and critical operational controls.
- Evaluation of practical application of procedures during normal vessel operations.
● ISPS Code (Security) Focusing on vessel protection. We review Security Plans, visitor procedures, and the readiness of security equipment.
● MLC 2006 (Labour/Welfare) Focusing on the human element. We review employment documentation, medical arrangements, and food/hygiene standards.
● Vetting attendance
● Charterer inspections
● Management audits
● Port State Control exposure
● Ownership transitions
● Internal management reviews
● RightShip RISQ 3.2 preparation
● SIRE 2.0 readiness assessments
Audit Deliverables
- Integrated Audit Summary: Combined ISM / ISPS / MLC risk overview
- Non-Conformity Register: Categorized findings across all systems
- PSC & Vetting Exposure Assessment: Operational risk evaluation
- Corrective Action Plan (CAPA): Prioritized system-wide improvements
- Evidence Pack: Photos, logs, and interview references
● Asia & Oceania: Australia, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam.
● Europe & Mediterranean: Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, France, Greece, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Turkey, UK.
● Middle East & Africa: Algeria, Angola, Egypt, Ghana, Iran, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, UAE (Dubai/Fujairah).
● Americas: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama, Peru, USA (Houston, Tampa, New Orleans), Venezuela.
Technical Content Review
Last Technical Review: July 2026
Review Frequency: Content is reviewed periodically to reflect current international maritime regulations, recognized industry guidance, and technical best practices.
Referenced Standards: IMO, IACS, OCIMF, RightShip RISQ, SOLAS, MARPOL, MLC 2006, applicable Flag State requirements, and Classification Society rules, where relevant to the service.
Internal Audit & Compliance FAQ
Are these official certification audits?
No. These are independent proactive reviews separate from Class or Flag State audits. They help owners improve fleet readiness and identify compliance gaps internally.
Can you focus only on MLC or ISM?
Yes. The audit scope is fully tailorable. We can perform a deep dive into MLC requirements or focus strictly on ISM Code safety management systems.
Do you review documents and records?
Yes. A thorough review of onboard documentation, maintenance records, and safety logs is a standard part of our technical auditing process.
Can this help before PSC inspections?
Absolutely. Gap assessments reduce "surprises" during official Port State Control (PSC) attendance by allowing crews to rectify findings in a controlled environment.
Technical Reference Standards – ISM / ISPS / MLC Audit
PAMS Pacific Admiralry Maritime Services ISM, ISPS, and MLC audit support services are conducted with reference to international maritime management systems, statutory requirements, and recognized industry compliance frameworks, including:
- IMO International Safety Management (ISM) Code requirements
- IMO International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code requirements
- Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006) requirements
- Flag State statutory obligations and verification requirements
- Classification society audit and compliance expectations
- Safety Management System (SMS) effectiveness review principles
- Shipboard operational procedures and emergency preparedness practices
- Continuous improvement and risk management practices
Ready to Proceed?
Request a survey or audit today. Describe your vessel and specific requirements, and our team will respond within 4 business hours.