What type of vessel is impacted by the ISM Code?

The International Safety Management (ISM) Code applies to certain categories of vessels, primarily aimed at enhancing the safety at sea and preventing pollution. This Code specifically targets ships that are subject to International conventions, which includes passenger ships and cargo ships of a certain size.

Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODUs) are recognized under the ISM Code as they may engage in operations that involve significant risks, particularly in relation to safety and environmental protection. The ISM Code helps ensure that these units operate under an effective safety management system, which aids in minimizing hazards to personnel and the marine environment.

In contrast, while fishing vessels and recreational boats are important to maritime safety, they typically fall outside the direct requirements of the ISM Code. Cargo ships below 500 gross tons (GT) are also an exception to the ISM Code requirements, as this regulation only applies to vessels above certain size thresholds. Thus, the ISM Code's focus on vessels like Mobile Offshore Drilling Units reinforces the importance of safety management systems in complex marine operations.