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Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles

Skills for ISM Compliance, Lead Auditing, and DPA Responsibility

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Why Choose Us

The Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles training course develops the practical understanding required to apply the ISM Code, undertake audits and fulfil DPA functions. Developed by ISM specialists and aligned with IMO Circular MSC-MEPC.7 Circ. 6, the course connects technical competence with operational responsibilities. Participants examine the legal, procedural and managerial expectations that shape the modern Designated Person Ashore role. Regulatory interpretation is combined with industry experience to support professional readiness for ISM-related responsibilities.

The course explains the ISM Code’s purpose, structure and application, including audit requirements, safety management expectations and compliance obligations. It addresses audit planning, non-conformity reporting, corrective actions, company responsibilities and SMS integration across ship and shore operations. Participants consider the communication, decision-making and verification skills required by Lead Auditors and DPAs, including interaction with shipboard personnel. ISM principles, audit simulations and practical case studies provide a framework for strengthening safety performance and maintaining compliance in dynamic maritime operations.

This Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles training course will highlight:

Interpreting the purpose, structure and application of the ISM Code
Planning audits and understanding associated responsibilities and requirements
Reporting non-conformities and implementing corrective actions
Understanding company responsibilities and integrating the SMS across ship and shore operations
Applying communication, decision-making and verification techniques in Lead Auditor and DPA roles
Using audit simulations and practical case studies to strengthen safety performance and compliance

Why Choose Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles

Course Goals

What are the Goals?

The purpose of the ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles Training is to broaden participants’ knowledge of the ISM Code, safety management requirements, and auditing responsibilities, while enhancing their ability to carry out DPA functions effectively.

Upon completion of this training course, participants will be able to:

Display advanced knowledge and comprehension of the ISM Code.
Describe the Code’s background, aims, and associated mandatory rules.
Recognise SMS requirements and specify obligations at company level.
Comprehend DPA responsibilities, authority, and legal exposure in accordance with IMO guidance.
Present evidence of the competence needed to perform DPA duties under MSC-MEPC.7 Circ. 6.
Use audit assessment methods, including examination, questioning, evaluation, and reporting.
Contribute effectively to audits of marine-related management systems.
Use the technical and operational elements of SMS implementation and verification.
Communicate efficiently with onboard teams and senior management.
Explain the requirements of STCW 2010 and MLC 2006 that relate to ISM compliance.

Who is this Training Course for?

This Advanced ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles training course is designed for:

Designated Persons Ashore (DPAs)
Deputy Designated Persons Ashore
ISM Code Lead Auditors
Marine Internal Auditors
Marine Safety Managers
QHSE Managers
Marine Compliance Managers
Ship Managers
Marine Superintendents
Technical Superintendents
Ship Masters
Chief Engineers

Learning Approach

How will this Training Course be Presented?

The ISM Code, Lead Auditor & DPA Roles Training applies professional learning methods that encourage thorough understanding, active involvement, and practical use. The training follows an interactive and participatory approach, blending expert-led instruction with purposeful group discussions and hands-on activities.

Participants are provided with comprehensive course resources and complete exercises that strengthen auditing skills, DPA duties, and SMS implementation requirements. Real-world examples, case studies, simulations, and structured activities provide participants with practical insights consistent with maritime industry standards.

Methods used include:

Instructor-guided presentations covering detailed ISM and auditing content.
Group discussions that support experience sharing and collaborative learning.
Case studies focused on auditing challenges and verification practices.
Practical exercises involving audit simulations and activities related to the DPA role.
Supporting resources comprising manuals, worksheets, and visual learning materials.

The Course Content

Introduction to the ISM Code

Overview of the ISM Code

History and development
Objectives and functional requirements
ISM Code Requirements
Review of Safety Management System (SMS)

Structure of the ISM Code

General provisions
Safety management objectives
Company responsibilities and authority

Benefits of ISM Code Compliance

Enhanced safety and environmental protection
Improved operational efficiency

ISM Certification and Verification

Verification by Administrations or Recognized Organizations (ROs)
Certification & Periodical Verification (para 13 ISM Code)
Annual verification of Document of Compliance
Interim Certification requirements (para 14 ISM Code)

Safety Management Systems (SMS)

Overview of the ISM Code

Objectives of an SMS

Components of SMS

Safety and Environmental Policy statements
Procedures and Manuals
Emergency preparedness
Reporting and Investigation of Non-Conformities

Developing and Maintaining SMS

Risk Assessment & Management
Defined Responsibilities and Authority
Continuous improvement processes

SMS Implementation & Certification

SMS and ISM Code Compliance
Benefits of an Effective SMS
Common Challenges and Solutions in SMS Implementation
Role of the Designated Person Ashore (DPA) in SMS
SMS Audits and Certification
SMS Continuous Improvement and Feedback Loop
Best Practices for SMS Effectiveness

Lead Auditor Training

Understanding Audits

Types of audits: Internal, external, and third-party
Importance of audits for ISM Code compliance

Audit Phases

Planning and Preparing

Roles and Responsibilities of a Lead Auditor

Planning and preparation
Forming An Audit Team
Managing the audit team

Conducting an Audit

Opening meeting
Evidence collection techniques (interviews, document reviews, observations)
Closing meeting

Audit Reporting

Drafting the Audit Report
Non-conformity reporting
Corrective and preventive action follow-ups

Audit Skills Development

Communication and observation
Handling conflicts during audits

Designated Person Ashore (DPA) Role

Understanding the Role of the DPA

Legal framework and ISM Code requirements

Key Competencies for a DPA

Leadership and decision-making
Effective communication and interpersonal skills

Monitoring and Auditing SMS Performance

Conducting Internal Audits and Inspections

Communication and Liaison

Acting as the link between the ship and shore
Ensuring the company’s SMS is effectively implemented
Liaising of External Audits and Regulatory Compliance

Incident Management

Investigating incidents and ensuring corrective actions
Post-Incident Recovery and Reporting under the ISM Code
Coordinating the response to incidents

Monitoring and Review

Evaluating SMS performance
Proactive identification of non-conformities

Emergency Preparedness and Crisis Management

Emergency Response Planning

Practical Exercises and Case Studies

ISM Code Application

Scenario-based exercises on SMS implementation

Audit Simulation

Conducting a mock ISM audit with reporting
Role-Playing Exercises
Group discussions on audit approaches and challenges

DPA Practical Exercises and Case Studies

DPA Role Simulation
Coordinating a mock emergency as a DPA
Discussion on lessons learned and best practices

DPA Challenges

Handling real-world situations, such as emergencies and communication breakdowns

Recognition

Certificate

• Wallstreet Development Academy Certificate of Completion for delegates who attend and complete the training course.

Frequently Asked Questions

The course covers advanced ISM Code compliance, lead auditing, and DPA responsibility. It brings these three areas together to develop a clearer understanding of their related requirements and responsibilities. The focus is on skills for managing compliance, leading audits, and performing the DPA role.

The course develops skills relevant to taking a lead role in ISM auditing. It connects lead auditing responsibilities with the wider objective of ISM compliance. Specific audit methods or assessment criteria are not stated in the available course information.

This course is relevant to people seeking advanced knowledge of ISM compliance, lead auditing, or DPA responsibility. It may also suit those whose work connects these three areas. No specific entry requirements or job titles are provided in the course information.

The course presents ISM compliance as the shared context for lead auditing and DPA responsibility. It helps learners consider how auditing and DPA duties contribute to compliance with the ISM Code. This combined focus is central to the course title and subtitle.

You will learn about the ISM Code at an advanced level, with an emphasis on compliance. The course also addresses how lead auditing and DPA responsibilities support that compliance. It is designed to strengthen your understanding of these connected functions.

The course addresses the responsibilities associated with the DPA role in the context of ISM compliance. It considers DPA responsibility alongside advanced ISM Code knowledge and lead auditing. The available course information does not provide a detailed list of individual DPA duties.

The training builds skills in ISM compliance, lead auditing, and carrying DPA responsibility. It supports a more integrated understanding of how these areas relate to one another. The emphasis is on advanced, role-relevant capability rather than a general introduction.

This is an advanced course rather than a general introductory overview. Its scope combines ISM Code compliance with lead auditor and DPA responsibilities. The available information does not specify prerequisite knowledge, so no particular entry level can be confirmed.