Which vessel type is primarily affected by the ISM Code?

The ISM Code, which stands for the International Safety Management Code, is primarily focused on ensuring safety at sea and preventing marine pollution. It sets out safety management objectives that shipowners and operators must adhere to, making it particularly applicable to vessels involved in commercial operations.

Passenger vessels are significantly impacted by the ISM Code because these types of vessels carry passengers for hire, which introduces additional safety and operational considerations. Regulations are particularly stringent for passenger vessels due to the increased risks associated with carrying large numbers of people. The code requires that these vessels establish safety management systems that include procedures for emergency situations, crew training, and maintenance protocols, ensuring that passenger safety and environmental protection are prioritized.

While cargo vessels are also influenced by the ISM Code, the focus on passenger vessels arises from the potential for higher stakes during emergencies and the need for enhanced safety measures that affect not just cargo, but human life. Recreational and fishing vessels do not fall under the same regulatory requirements outlined in the ISM Code to the same extent as passenger vessels, as they typically do not engage in commercial operations that pose similar risks.