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ISM Code Internal Auditor Certification

The International Safety Management (ISM) Code — SOLAS Chapter IX — requires every shipping company to establish, implement, and maintain a Safety Management System (SMS). The ISM Code mandates regular internal audits of both the company's shore-based organisation and each vessel to verify that SMS procedures are being implemented effectively and that the system is producing continuous improvement in safety and environmental performance. This Internal Auditor Certification programme trains candidates to plan and conduct effective ISM Code internal audits, identify and categorise non-conformities, prepare formal audit reports, and follow through with corrective action verification. The programme is based on ISO 19011 (Guidelines for Auditing Management Systems) adapted for the maritime context and aligned with the ISM Code and IMO guidance publications. On completion, the MarCert ISM Internal Auditor Certificate demonstrates competency in SMS auditing and is recognised by major classification societies, flag state administrations, and shipping companies. It is suitable for safety officers, technical superintendents, ship masters, and senior officers seeking to develop their quality management and auditing skills.

6 modules 7 lessons 40 hours 40 question exam 0 enrolled
$1,600
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Instant access on enrolment
Blockchain-verified certificate on completion
Accepted by 50+ maritime employers
80% pass mark — Expert standard
Live-proctored exam, globally accepted
20 CPE credits on passing
IMO Compliant
STCW Aligned
ISO 9001
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Our instructors are actively expanding this course with additional lessons, case studies, and practical exercises. Enrol now to access existing content and receive all new material automatically as it is published.

What You'll Learn

Plan an ISM Code internal audit using audit programme and checklists aligned with SOLAS Chapter IX
Conduct opening meetings, document reviews, and physical inspections in accordance with ISO 19011
Classify findings as non-conformities (major and minor) and observations in accordance with ISM Code criteria
Prepare formal audit reports with objective evidence and SMART corrective action requirements
Verify the effectiveness of corrective actions during follow-up audits or desk reviews
Apply the ISM Code continuous improvement cycle to drive SMS development beyond mere compliance

Prerequisites

  • STCW Officer or equivalent management level qualification
  • Minimum 3 years sea service at officer level or equivalent shore-based role
  • Familiarity with ISM Code and SMS documentation

Course Curriculum

Module 1: Module 1: ISM Code Structure and SMS Development
2 lessons
ISM Code — Requirements, SMS Structure, and the Document Hierarchy 45 min
Internal Audit Planning and Conduct 45 min
Module 2: Module 2: Accident Investigation and SMS Improvement
1 lessons
Module 3: Module 3: Non-Conformities, Corrective Actions, and Root Cause Analysis
1 lessons
Module 4: Module 4: SMS Documentation — Policies, Procedures, and Record Control
1 lessons
Module 5: Module 5: Audit Planning, Execution, and Reporting
1 lessons
Module 6: Module 6: Management Review, CII, and ISM Continuous Improvement
1 lessons

Who This Certification Is For

Senior officers and department heads
Training officers developing crew programmes
Port authority compliance inspectors
Candidates seeking the highest-tier certification recognised by flag states

Certification Exam

40
Questions
30 min
Duration
80%
Pass Mark
∞
Attempts

Complete all course modules before attempting the certification exam. You must achieve the pass mark to receive your certificate.