The Merchant Shipping (International Safety Management (ISM) Code) Regulations 2026

At a glance

Relevant guidance

Practical guides for businesses affected by this Act, ordered by how closely they engage with it.

Key facts and requirements

Specific requirements and data extracted from this legislation.

• ISM Code safety management certification (sea-going passenger ships — MCA)

  If you operate a sea-going passenger ship on international voyages (SIC 50.10), you must run a Safety Management System under the International Safety Management (ISM) …

• ISM Code safety management certification (sea-going cargo ships — MCA)

  If you operate a sea-going cargo ship of 500GT or more on international voyages (SIC 50.20), you must run an ISM-compliant Safety Management System and …

• ISM Code compliance

  International Safety Management Code requirements for UK vessels

• ISM Code Document of Compliance and Safety Management Certificate process

  Step-by-step procedure for obtaining ISM Code certification including Document of Compliance (DOC) for company shore operations and Safety Management Certificate (SMC) for individual vessels.